Definition

The quality or state of lasting for a very short time; something that is temporary or fleeting.

Example

The ephemerality of the flowers made them even more beautiful, as they bloomed for only a few days.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the ephemerality of life and how quickly things change?

Yeah, it's kind of mind-blowing when you really think about it.

I mean, sometimes I feel like we should appreciate moments more because of that ephemerality.

Definitely! It makes every experience feel even more special.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ephemerality is formed from "ephemeros" (Greek, meaning lasting a day) and the suffix "-ity" (meaning the state or quality of). The word describes the quality of being short-lived or transient, as something that lasts only for a day.

Memory Tip

Think of something that lasts just for a day ('ephemeros') — that's why ephemerality refers to the state of being short-lived.

Visually Confused Words