Daily Word Box

Word

ephemeral

adjective C1

Meanings

adjective

Lasting for a very short time; quickly fading or disappearing.

Visual cue for ephemeral — meaning 1
adjective

Temporary in popularity or attention; not enduring.

Visual cue for ephemeral — meaning 2

Definition

Ephemeral describes something that lasts for only a short time.

If something is ephemeral, it exists or stays for a brief period and then disappears or changes. It is often used for experiences, trends, feelings, or natural events that do not last. The word emphasizes how quickly something fades compared to more lasting things.

Examples

  • The beauty of the cherry blossoms is ephemeral.
  • Their online fame was ephemeral and vanished within weeks.
  • I tried to capture an ephemeral moment of silence before the storm.
  • The festival created an ephemeral community in the park.
  • Her joy felt ephemeral after the bad news arrived.