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makeshift

adjective/ˈmeɪkʃɪft/

definition

temporary and usually crude or improvised

example

After the storm destroyed the tent, they set up a makeshift shelter using tarps and branches.

synonyms
improvisedtemporarycrude
word origin — The word 'makeshift' is formed from the verb 'make' and the noun 'shift,' indicating a temporary measure or arrangement made to 'make do' in response to a need.

makeshift, nomadic, contentious, impractical, frantic: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 279. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

  1. makeshift · adjective/ˈmeɪkʃɪft/

    temporary and usually crude or improvised

    After the storm destroyed the tent, they set up a makeshift shelter using tarps and branches.

    Synonyms: improvised, temporary, crude

    Origin: The word 'makeshift' is formed from the verb 'make' and the noun 'shift,' indicating a temporary measure or arrangement made to 'make do' in response to a need.

  2. nomadic · adjective/noʊˈmædɪk/

    relating to a lifestyle characterized by moving from place to place rather than settling permanently in one location

    The nomadic lifestyle of the shepherds allows them to adapt to the changing seasons and find the best grazing lands for their flocks.

    Synonyms: roaming, wandering, itinerant

    Origin: The word 'nomadic' originates from the Greek 'nomas,' meaning 'wandering' or 'pasturing,' which is derived from 'nemein,' meaning 'to pasture.'

  3. contentious · adjective/kənˈtɛnʃəs/

    causing or likely to cause an argument controversial

    The meeting turned into a contentious debate over the proposed budget cuts, with members arguing passionately about their potential impact.

    Synonyms: controversial, disputatious, argumentative

    Origin: Late Latin 'contentiosus', from 'contentio', meaning 'strife' or 'disputable'

  4. impractical · adjective/ɪmˈpræktɪkəl/

    not suitable for practical use or application

    The designer proposed an impractical solution that would be too costly to implement in the real world.

    Synonyms: unworkable, unfeasible, unrealistic

    Origin: The word 'impractical' comes from the prefix 'im-' meaning 'not', combined with 'practical', which derives from late Middle English, from Old French 'practique', and ultimately from Latin 'practicus', meaning 'practical' or 'fit for practice'.

  5. frantic · adjective/ˈfræntɪk/

    wild or distraught with fear or anxiety

    After realizing she had lost her wallet, she made a frantic search through her bag and the surrounding area.

    Synonyms: hysterical, agitated

    Origin: Late Middle English, from Latin 'franticus' meaning 'mad, frantic'