make do

1 of 2

phrase

Synonyms of make donext
: to get along or manage with the means at hand
will just have to make do with what we've got

make-do

2 of 2

adjective

ˈmāk-ˈdü How to pronounce make-do (audio)
: makeshift
make-do noun

Examples of make do in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Phrase
Modern Californians have been forced to make do with Hollywood's CGI versions of the fault, which cast it as one of the state's darkest villains. — Rong-Gong Lin Ii Los Angeles Times, Arkansas Online, 2 Aug. 2026 While districts with more financial cushion will be able to make do during the latest bill gap, CPS’ cash flow problems have made the lag that much more dire. — Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026
Adjective
Chess pie hails from an era of make-do pies. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2026 Greenlanders’ self-reliance and make-do adaptation in its unforgiving climate further cement the comparison. — Andrew McKean, Outdoor Life, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for make do

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of make do was in 1923

Rhymes for make do

See All Rhymes for make do

Browse Nearby Words

make deliveries
make do
make-do
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Cite this Entry

“Make do.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/make%20do. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on make do

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for make do

Nglish: Translation of make do for Spanish Speakers

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