ephemeral
ih-FEM-er-ul
/ɪˈfɛmərəl/
Lasting for a very short time; living or lasting only for a day.
Carries a biological or artistic connotation; often used for things that are beautiful but destined to fade.
The story behind the word. Originally a medical term in the late 14th century, it described a fever that lasted only one day. It comes from the Greek 'ephemeros', literally 'lasting a day'. It was later applied to insects like the mayfly, which live for only 24 hours in their adult form.
Word relationships
- short-lived: Short-lived is more common; ephemeral is more poetic and specifically implies a natural cycle.
- perennial: Perennial means lasting for a long time or recurring regularly.
Commonly confused with
- evanescent: Ephemeral suggests a short lifespan (like a flower), while evanescent suggests vanishing like vapor.
Word family
- ephemera (noun): Things that exist or are used or enjoyed for only a short time.
Collocations
- ephemeral beauty
- ephemeral nature
- ephemeral art
- ephemeral pleasures
Example sentences
- "In the age of social media, fame is often ephemeral, lasting only until the next viral trend takes over." Describing the nature of fame.
- "The ephemeral life of the mayfly is a classic example of nature's brevity." Scientific description of insects.
Memory hook
E-Phem-Eral: Every Phenomenon Ends Real early. The one-day mayfly.
When not to use
Do not use for things that are intended to be permanent but were accidentally destroyed.
Fun facts
- Librarians use the term 'ephemera' to describe items like bus tickets or posters that weren't meant to be saved but are now historical artifacts.
Related words
Also appears in
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