longevity
lon-JEV-uh-tee
/lɒnˈdʒɛv.ə.ti/
Long existence or long duration of life, service, or institutional operation.
Applies both to human lifespan and to the lasting duration of careers, items, or institutions.
The story behind the word. Coined in the sixteenth century from the Latin compound 'longaevitas', combining 'longus' (long) and 'aevum' (age or era). It arrived in English during the Renaissance when scholars sought precise vocabulary to discuss human life expectancy and classical philosophy.
Word relationships
- durability: 'Durability' refers to physical toughness against wear, whereas 'longevity' emphasizes length of time survived.
- permanence: 'Permanence' implies lasting forever, whereas 'longevity' simply implies a very long duration.
- transience: 'Transience' refers to a short, fleeting existence.
- brevity: 'Brevity' refers to shortness of duration.
Commonly confused with
- longitude: Longitude refers to geographic coordinates east/west; longevity refers to long life or duration.
Word family
- longevitan (adjective): Relating to long life (rare).
Collocations
- exceptional longevity
- promote longevity
- career longevity
- factors in longevity
Example sentences
- "Medical researchers attribute the community's exceptional longevity to a Mediterranean diet and regular activity." Health Science
- "The longevity of the family-owned business was sustained by three generations of prudent leadership." Corporate Affairs
Memory hook
LONG + AGE = Longevity (a long age of life). Long age, long lifespan.
When not to use
Do not use to describe physical length in spatial terms (e.g., a long rope). Use only for time and duration.
Fun facts
- The island of Okinawa in Japan is famous for having one of the highest longevity rates in the world.
Related words
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