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

Allegations include around-the-clock working hours and substandard pay, breaches of safety measures and makeshift sleeping areas inside small workshops.

From Barron's

Hundreds used to flock to the makeshift memorial on the anniversary of his death, which came on Friday.

From Barron's

Dr. Kane formed a rescue mission which set off across the ice and found the men in a makeshift tent, almost dead.

From Literature

Around a million people fled that area during the conflict and have been living in poor conditions in makeshift camps throughout Tigray.

From BBC

After Brooklyn, the family moved to New Jersey, where Jean built a makeshift studio in his uncle’s basement.

From Los Angeles Times