ephemeral
adjective
Most Common
1.
Lasting for a very short time; transitory.
The ephemeral beauty of the cherry blossoms reminds us to cherish every moment.
2.
(Of an insect) living for only a short time.
The ephemeral phase of the mayfly lasts only a few hours.
3.
Relating to a plant or plant part that appears and dies back within a few weeks.
Synonyms
fleeting
transient
momentary
brief
short-lived
passing
evanescent
fugacious
temporary
noun
Botany
1.
An ephemeral plant or insect.
Origin
Early 17th century: from Greek ephēmeros 'lasting only a day', from epi- 'upon' + hēmera 'day'.
Related Words
Ephemera
Ephemeron
Mayfly
Anadromous