long-term

adjective

ˈlȯŋ-ˈtərm 

1

: occurring over or involving a relatively long period of time

seeking long-term solutions

2

a

: of, relating to, or constituting a financial operation or obligation based on a considerable term and especially one of more than 10 years

long-term bonds

b

: generated by assets held for longer than six months

a long-term capital gain

Synonyms of long-term

• long
• lengthy

Examples of long-term in a Sentence

before approving a new drug, the government insists on some long-term research to determine any possible side effects

Recent Examples on the Web

Typically, financial advisors who specialize in working with retirees can help with investing, portfolio distribution, Social Security, tax planning, Medicare, long-term care and estate planning, among other issues. — Kate Dore, Cfp®, Ea,kelli Grant, Cfp®, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026

CMOs are caught in the middle, trying to prove long-term brand value while delivering short-term efficiency gains. — Derya Matras, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2026

Linking markets across African countries will be key to diversification, moving up the value chain, and generating long-term economic transformation. — Jared Cohen, Foreign Affairs, 7 Oct. 2026

The first phase of LeVota’s plan would define Arrowhead’s long-term use and explore opportunities to keep it active year-round. — Dylan Lysen, Kansas City Star, 7 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for long-term

• affirm
• bookworm
• budworm
• confirm
• cutworm
• earthworm
• infirm
• midterm
• ringworm
• tapeworm
• wireworm
• angiosperm

Kids Definition

long-term

adjective

-ˈtərm

: extending over or involving a long period of time