'ephemeral' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ephēmeros,' where 'epi-' meant 'upon' and 'hēmera' meant 'day.'

'ephēmeros' transformed into the Late Latin word 'ephemerus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ephemeral.'

Initially, it meant 'lasting only a day,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lasting for a very short time.'