eternal
28 synonyms and 9 antonyms for eternal, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Lasting forever, without beginning or end.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use eternal
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French eternal, from Latin aeternus (\"eternal\"), from aevum (\"age, lifetime\") — the same root that gives us the word \"age\".
Full origin of eternal →Frequently asked questions
What does “eternal” mean?
The word “eternal” means lasting forever, without beginning or end. In plain terms, going on forever, or feeling like it never stops.
How do you pronounce “eternal”?
“Eternal” is pronounced ih-TUR-nl (/ɪˈtɝ.nl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “eternal” in a sentence?
Here is “eternal” used in a sentence: “Many religions promise the soul eternal life.”
What is another word for “eternal”?
Words with a similar meaning to “eternal” include ageful, agelong, amaranthine, celestial, endless and enduring.
What is the opposite of “eternal”?
The opposite of “eternal” — its antonyms — are ephemeral, fleeting, impermanent, mortal and momentary.
What part of speech is “eternal”?
“Eternal” is an adjective.
Where does the word “eternal” come from?
The word “eternal” comes from Latin. From Old French eternal, from Latin aeternus (\"eternal\"), from aevum (\"age, lifetime\") — the same root that gives us the word \"age\".
Is “eternal” a common word?
“Eternal” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between "eternal" and "immortal"?
"Eternal" means lasting forever, without beginning or end, and can describe things, states, or ideas. "Immortal" specifically means unable to die, so it usually applies to living beings or their souls.
What is the difference between "eternal" and "everlasting"?
Both mean lasting forever and are often interchangeable. "Eternal" can suggest existence outside time altogether, without beginning or end, while "everlasting" more often stresses continuing endlessly into the future.
When is "eternal" used to complain about something?
In its informal sense, "eternal" describes something that seems to go on forever and is irritating, as in "his eternal complaining." Here it does not mean literally forever but expresses frustration at something constant or never-ending.
What nouns commonly follow "eternal"?
"Eternal" often pairs with abstract nouns such as "eternal life," "eternal love," "eternal peace," and "eternal flame." In the complaining sense it precedes ordinary nouns, as in "eternal delays."