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Definition of "makeshift" []

  • A temporary or expedient substitute for something else. (noun)
  • Suitable as a temporary or expedient substitute: used a rock as a makeshift hammer. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "makeshift" in a sentence
  • "I think what you call the makeshift contrivances at dear Helstone were a charming part of the life there. '"
  • "In July, a CNN investigation revealed that since the quake that left thousands of children orphaned and up to 1.5 million people living on the streets and in makeshift camps, much of the aid promised to the country has yet to be delivered."
  • "Argueta contrasts these accounts with those dragged into the raid's aftermath - a massive operation where workers were tried ten-at-a-time in makeshift courtrooms at a cattle fairground."