transience

noun

tran·sience ˈtran(t)-sh(ē-)ən(t)s ˈtran-zē-ən(t)s

ˈtran(t)-sē-;

ˈtran-zhən(t)s,

-jən(t)s

Synonyms of transience

: the quality or state of being transient

Examples of transience in a Sentence

the transience of spring in northern climates means residents get to enjoy temperate weather only briefly before the heat and humidity of summer set in

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

To cope with this reality, philosophical and religious traditions such as Buddhism and Stoicism have long focused on transience, unpredictability, and the inevitability of change and loss. — Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026 In the Christian tradition, these words are a grim warning of our transience, the vaporous substance of our lives. — Literary Hub, 31 Aug. 2026 In an era of screen abundance, Hollywood has tried to differentiate the theatrical release by creating an artificial sense of scarcity and transience. — Sophia Nguyen, The Atlantic, 2 Aug. 2026 On that account, transience — the steady loss of detail — matters as much as persistence. — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for transience

Word History

First Known Use

1739, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of transience was in 1739

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

transhumant

transience

transiency

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Transience.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transience. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

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transience

noun

Synonyms of transience

Examples of transience in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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