short-lived

adjective

ˈshȯrt-ˈlivd How to pronounce short-lived (audio)
also
-ˈlīvd How to pronounce short-lived (audio)
Synonyms of short-livednext
: not living or lasting long
short-lived insects
short-lived joy

Synonyms of short-lived

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Examples of short-lived in a Sentence

the skier's triumph turned out to be short-lived, as the next competitor bested her time
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Forecasters said the system is expected to be short-lived because of hostile environmental conditions starting on Friday that will prevent it from developing further. — Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 The break will be short-lived, as hotter and more humid weather is expected this weekend and will continue into early next week. — Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026 However, this flurry of spy satellite development was short-lived. — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2026 The Minnesota State Cattlemen's Association says any price relief will be short-lived. — Esme Murphy, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for short-lived

Word History

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of short-lived was in 1588

Rhymes for short-lived

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Browse Nearby Words

short list
short-lived
short-livedness
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Cite this Entry

“Short-lived.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/short-lived. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

short-lived

adjective
ˈshȯrt-ˈlīvd, 
-ˌlivd
: living or lasting only a short time
short-lived blooms
short-lived joy
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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