Ephemeral
/ɪˈfɛm.ər.əl/noun
Lasting for a very short time.
Did you know?In ancient poetry, ephemeral moments were often regarded as the most precious, symbolizing beauty's transient nature and the urgency of seizing the day.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἐφήμερος (ephēmeros)
“Lasting only for a day.”
Latin
Latin
ephemerus
“Of or for a day.”
Old French
Old French
éphémère
“Fleeting, transitory.”
14th Century
Middle English
ephemerale
“Existing briefly, of short duration.”
Modern English
English
ephemeral
“Describing something that is temporary or short-lived.”