English vocabulary · C1
Makeshift
/ˈmeɪkˌʃɪft/ · adj., n.
Makeshift means used for a short time because the right thing is not there. It helps with a need now but is not the final answer.
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Example sentences
- We used boxes as a makeshift table.
- The tent became a makeshift clinic.
Word origin and roots
from Old English roots
- make — create (from Old English roots)
- shift — way (from Old English roots)
Synonyms and nuances
- TEMPORARY — not meant to last (For A Short Time)
- IMPROVISED — made without a plan (Made With What Is There)
- STOPGAP — fills a need for now (Until The Right Thing Comes)
Similar words
- temporary
- improvised
- stopgap
Lesson notes
Makeshift means used for a short time because the right thing is not there. It helps with a need now but is not the final answer.
Related: temporary, improvised, stopgap. Use makeshift when someone uses an imperfect replacement because the right thing is not ready.
We used boxes as a makeshift table. The tent became a makeshift clinic.
From Old English roots. Make means create. Shift once meant a way to manage. They joined in English as makeshift, a short-term answer when the right thing is missing.