temporary
UK: ˈtɛmp(ə)rəri | US: ˈtɛmpəˌrɛri
adj. lasting for only a limited period of time; not permanent
n. a person employed on a temporary basis (e.g., an office worker)
temporary = tempor<time> + ary<adjective suffix>
- tempor (from Latin tempus, meaning "time")
- ary (a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating "related to" or "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word "temporary" traces back to Latin temporarius, derived from tempus (time). It entered Middle English via Old French temporaire, retaining the core idea of being "time-bound." The suffix -ary (from Latin -arius) generalizes the meaning to "relating to time," emphasizing transience. The logic is straightforward: something temporary exists only within a specific timeframe, contrasting with permanence.
The office hired temporary staff during the busy season.
Her joy was temporary, fading as quickly as it came.
The bridge was a temporary solution until repairs could be completed.
He worked as a temporary teacher while pursuing his degree.
The exhibit is a temporary installation, closing next month.