Dictionary
makeshift
noun make·shift \ˈmāk-ˌshift\
Definition of MAKESHIFT
: a usually crude and temporary expedient : substitute
— makeshift adjective
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First Known Use of MAKESHIFT
1766
Synonym Discussion of MAKESHIFT
resource, resort, expedient, shift, makeshift, stopgap mean something one turns to in the absence of the usual means or source of supply. resource and resort apply to anything one falls back upon <exhausted all of their resources> <a last resort>. expedient may apply to any device or contrivance used when the usual one is not at hand or not possible <a flimsy expedient>. shift implies a tentative or temporary imperfect expedient <desperate shifts to stave off foreclosure>. makeshift implies an inferior expedient adopted because of urgent need or allowed through indifference <old equipment employed as a makeshift>. stopgap applies to something used temporarily as an emergency measure <a new law intended only as a stopgap>.
Rhymes with MAKESHIFT
MAKE SHIFT Defined for Kids
makeshift
adjective make·shift \ˈmāk-ˌshift\
Definition of MAKESHIFT for Kids
: serving as a temporary substitute <I used my jacket as a makeshift pillow.>
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