ephemeral

/əˈfem.ər.əl/ adjective

1 Lasting for a very short time; transitory.

The ephemeral nature of digital trends makes them hard to track over time.

2 Designed or intended to be used for only a short time.

Many startups launch ephemeral features to test user engagement quickly.

3 (Biology) Living or existing for only one season, day, or short period.

Ephemeral plants complete their entire life cycle within weeks of rainfall.

Synonyms

fleeting transient momentary brief short-lived passing evanescent temporary

Antonyms

permanent enduring lasting everlasting

Etymology & Usage

Origin: Early 17th century: via Latin from Greek ephēmeros, meaning 'lasting only for a day' (epi- 'upon' + hēmera 'day'). Originally used in biology to describe short-lived organisms, later extended to general usage.

Usage note: While often used interchangeably with "temporary," ephemeral carries a stronger connotation of beauty or poignancy in its brevity. Common in literary, artistic, and philosophical contexts.