

Transient is most often used to modify nouns like nature, threat, source and cause, which suggests that the word often shows up in formal contexts, like analysis of finance or global terrorism. But it can also be used for anything that moves quickly from one thing to another, like a transient feeling or facial expression. Transient is also a noun meaning "a person who moves from place to place; a homeless person." The word comes from Latin transire, "to pass over," so you can think of it as describing things that are quickly passed over.

Definitions of transient
  1. adjective
    lasting a very short time
    “youth's transient beauty”
    synonyms: ephemeral, fugacious, passing, short-lived, transitory
    impermanent, temporary
    not permanent; not lasting
  2. adjective
    remaining or working in a place for only a brief time
  3. noun
    one who stays for only a short time
    transient laborers”
    see moresee less
    type of:
    traveler, traveller
    a person who changes location
  4. noun
    see moresee less
    type of:
    oscillation, vibration
    (physics) a regular periodic variation in value about a mean
  5. adjective
    of a mental act; causing effects outside the mind
    synonyms: transeunt
    see moresee less
    immanent, subjective
    of a mental act performed entirely within the mind
Word Family

Test prep from the experts

Boost your test score with programs developed by’s experts.



  • Number of words: 500+
  • Duration: 8 weeks or less
  • Time: 1 hour / week


  • Number of words: 500+
  • Duration: 10 weeks or less
  • Time: 1 hour / week


  • Number of words: 700+
  • Duration: 10 weeks
  • Time: 1 hour / week