Definition

Something that disappears quickly or is short-lived, like vapor.

Example

The beauty of the sunset was evanescent, fading away within moments.

Conversation

I caught a glimpse of the sunset today, and it was so evanescent.

I know what you mean! Those moments are always so fleeting.

It's amazing how something so beautiful can disappear so quickly.

Exactly! We should try to appreciate those evanescent moments more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Evanescent → It is formed from "e-" (a variant of "ex-", meaning out of) and "vanescere" (meaning to vanish). The word describes something that is fleeting or vanishing quickly, as if it is disappearing out of sight.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'vanishing' ('vanescere') 'out of' ('e-') sight — that's why evanescent means something that fades away quickly.

Visually Confused Words