perpetual
per-PET-choo-uhl
/pəˈpetʃuəl/
Never ending or changing; occurring repeatedly so as to seem endless.
Often used for natural forces or annoying, repetitive human actions.
The story behind the word. From 'per-' (through) and 'petere' (to seek or go toward). It describes something that 'goes through' all time without stopping.
Word relationships
- eternal: Eternal implies existing outside of time altogether, while perpetual implies continuing through time without end.
- ceaseless: Ceaseless emphasizes the lack of any pause or stop.
- temporary: Lasting only for a limited time.
- finite: Having a definite end or limit.
Commonly confused with
- permanent: Permanent means intended to last; perpetual means actually continuing without end.
Word family
- perpetual (adjective): Never ending.
- perpetually (adverb): In a perpetual way.
- perpetuate (verb): To make something continue indefinitely.
Collocations
- perpetual motion
- perpetual fear
- perpetual student
- perpetual calendar
Example sentences
- "The perpetual motion of the waves slowly eroded the cliffs over thousands of years." A description of the ocean's power.
- "She lived in a state of perpetual anxiety about her children's future." Describing a state of mind.
Memory hook
Think of a 'Perpetual Motion Machine'—a device that scientists say is impossible because it would run forever. Perpetual is forever.
When not to use
Avoid for things that simply last a long time but will eventually end; use 'long-term' instead.
Fun facts
- A 'perpetual calendar' is one that remains valid for many years, usually by accounting for leap years automatically.
Related words
Explore more words
continual, perennial, unceasing, perpetuate, continually, eternal
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