Definition

In a way that lasts for a very short time; fleeting or temporary.

Example

The flowers bloomed ephemerally, only lasting a few days before wilting.

Conversation

I love how some flowers bloom so ephemerally in spring.

Yeah, it's beautiful but sad at the same time.

Exactly! Those moments feel so fleeting.

They really do, which is why we should cherish them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ephemerally → It is formed from "ephemeros" (Greek, meaning lasting only a day) and the suffix "-ally" (meaning in a manner). The word "ephemerally" describes something that exists or lasts for a very short time, akin to a day.

Memory Tip

Think of something that lasts 'only a day' ('ephemeros') to remember that 'ephemerally' means existing for a brief moment.

Visually Confused Words