Ephemeran

/ɪˈfɛmərən/ adjective

Definition

Short-lived or lasting only for a very short time; another term for ephemeral, sometimes used in scientific contexts.

Etymology

From Greek ephemeros 'lasting a day' with the suffix -an, creating an alternative adjectival form.

Kelly Says

Scientists prefer 'ephemeran' when describing mayflies, which live as adults for mere hours—the word perfectly captures the insect that inspired the concept of 'lasting only a day.'

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