makeshift

[ meyk-shift ]

noun

1. a temporary expedient or substitute:

   We used boxes as a makeshift while the kitchen chairs were being painted.

   Synonyms: jury-rig, contrivance, make-do

adjective

1. Also makeshifty. serving as, or of the nature of, a makeshift.

   Synonyms: ersatz, jury, improvised, temporary, emergency

makeshift

/ ˈmeɪkˌʃɪft /

adjective

1. serving as a temporary or expedient means, esp during an emergency

noun

1. something serving in this capacity

Word History and Origins

Origin of makeshift¹

First recorded in 1555–65; noun, adj. use of verb phrase make shift

Example Sentences

The California Housing Authority and the Riverside County Department of Health instructed the city of Palm Springs to remove the makeshift, substandard homes in Section 14 in 1951, and eviction notices began going out to residents, according to the city.

From Los Angeles Times

In the end, an inexperienced and makeshift team made the task look relatively easy.

From BBC

Mr Khalife escaped from HMP Wandsworth in south-west London in September 2023 by clinging to the underside of a food delivery truck using a makeshift sling.

From BBC

During that evidence he admitted escaping from Wandsworth Prison in London by hanging in a makeshift sling under a food delivery lorry, concealed by the tailgate.

From BBC

Those who didn’t find room with relatives cram into public schools and hotels, squat in abandoned buildings or, for the truly desperate, sleep in makeshift tent encampments that now line the city’s parks and seaside boulevards.

From Los Angeles Times