perpetual
12 synonyms and 4 antonyms for perpetual, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Lasting forever, or continuing for so long it feels endless.
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 perpetual
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
perpetual motion
perpetual cycle
state of perpetual
Etymology
From Latin perpetuus, "continuing throughout," built from per- ("through") and a root meaning "to seek" or "make for."
Full origin of perpetual →Frequently asked questions
What does “perpetual” mean?
The word “perpetual” means lasting forever, or continuing for so long it feels endless. In plain terms, never-ending, or set up to continue indefinitely.
How do you pronounce “perpetual”?
“Perpetual” is pronounced puh-PEHT-shoorl (/pɚˈpɛt͡ʃuəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “perpetual” in a sentence?
Here is “perpetual” used in a sentence: “She lived in a state of perpetual worry about her son overseas.”
What part of speech is “perpetual”?
“Perpetual” is an adjective.
Where does the word “perpetual” come from?
The word “perpetual” comes from Latin. From Latin perpetuus, "continuing throughout," built from per- ("through") and a root meaning "to seek" or "make for.".
Is “perpetual” a common word?
“Perpetual” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “perpetual” have?
“Perpetual” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: lasting forever, or continuing for so long it feels endless.
What is the difference between perpetual and permanent?
Permanent describes something fixed and unchanging, not intended to be temporary, while perpetual emphasizes continuation without end or interruption, as in "perpetual motion" or "perpetual noise."
What is the difference between perpetual and eternal?
Eternal typically refers to something existing outside of time altogether, often in a spiritual or philosophical sense, while perpetual describes something that continues for so long it feels endless within ordinary time, like a perpetual argument.
