makeshift

Etymology 1

1680s. From the verb form make shift.

noun

1. A temporary (usually insubstantial) substitution.
   Hoboism cannot be cured or prevented by makeshifts or by local measures and efforts, although community interest naturally is vital in dealing with a problem that comes home to every community. 1923, Benjamin C. Marsh, “For the Community to Do”, in The World tomorrow, volume 6

adj

1. Made to work or suffice; improvised; substituted.
   They used the ledge and a few branches for a makeshift shelter.
   Hodgson was able to introduce Arsenal teenager Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for his debut late on as this makeshift England line-up closed out a victory that was solid for the most part without ever threatening to be spectacular. May 26 2012, Phil McNulty, “Norway 0-1 England”, in BBC Sport

Etymology 2

1560s. From make + shift.

noun

1. (obsolete) A rogue; a shifty person.
   Greene the coneycatcher, of this dream the author, / For his dainty devise deserveth the halter. / A rakehell, a makeshift, a scribbling fool; / A famous bayard in city and school: / Now sick as a dog, and ever brain-sick, / Where such a raving and desperate Dick? 1592, Gabriel Harvey, “The First Letter”, in Four Letters and Certain Sonnets, new edition, London: Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme, and Brown, published 1814, A Due Commendation of the Quipping Author, page 2