Synonyms for

Perpetual

Verb / pɜ:ˈpetʃu:ʌl / Another word for perpetual — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Perpetual means never-ending or constant.

Synonyms & similar words

aeonian neverending everlasting unending unceasing incessant eonian constant ceaseless unremitting ageless eternal constant incessant endless eternal unending continuous uninterrupted unfaltering unrelieved unvarying unceasing unbroken unremitting ceaseless immortal perennial everlasting continuous persistent never-ending

Synonyms by register

Formal

everlasting unceasing continuous constant

Informal

forever always non-stop all the time

Literary

eternal sempiternal evermore

Antonyms

temporary intermittent fleeting transient occasional sporadic

Common collocations

  • perpetual motion
  • perpetual calendar
  • perpetual debt
  • perpetual care
  • perpetual war
  • perpetual motion machine
  • perpetual student

Word family

noun perpetuity
verb perpetuate
adjective perpetual
adverb perpetually

Usage note

Often used to describe something that seems to last or continue indefinitely, sometimes with a slightly negative connotation of being unending or tiresome. Be careful not to confuse 'perpetual' with 'perpetrate', which means to commit a crime or harmful act.

Example sentences

  1. The perpetual motion machine was the scientist's life's work.
  2. Her perpetual smile made her a joy to be around.
  3. The perpetual noise from the construction site was driving me crazy.
  4. His perpetual tardiness was getting him into trouble at work.
  5. The perpetual darkness of winter made her feel depressed.

Quotes

  • 'Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.' - Colin Powell
  • 'We are all faced with a series of great opportunities - brilliantly disguised as insoluble problems.' - John W. Gardner
  • 'The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.' - Socrates

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