makeshift

American  

[meyk-shift] / ˈmeɪkˌʃɪft /

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

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adjective

1. Also makeshifty. serving as, or of the nature of, a makeshift.

   Synonyms:

   ersatz, jury, improvised, temporary, emergency

makeshift British  

/ ˈmeɪkˌʃɪft /

adjective

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

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noun

1. something serving in this capacity

Etymology

Origin of makeshift

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

Example Sentences

Santee Alley was born out of unconventionality with its makeshift stores designed to break retail rules.

From Los Angeles Times

I walk a frozen Bothnian Gulf at Nallikari, an obscured lighthouse, a delinquent lifeguard stand, and makeshift saunas stand on white expanse like archaeology.

From Salon

He started on the right side of a makeshift backline and was tasked with moving into midfield with the ball, which can present risks.

From BBC

He recognized some Iranian American students inside the makeshift compound, while others lined up outside with counterprotesters.

From Los Angeles Times

Our makeshift house was made of birches bent over and tied at the tops and covered with caribou skins.

From Literature