Langimage
English

perpetuity

|per/pe/tu/i/ty|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˌpɜːrpəˈtuːəti/

🇬🇧

/ˌpɜːpɪˈtjuːəti/

endless duration

Etymology
Etymology Information

'perpetuity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'perpetuitas,' where 'perpetuus' meant 'continuous' or 'uninterrupted.'

Historical Evolution

'perpetuitas' transformed into the Old French word 'perpetuité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'perpetuity' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'continuous or uninterrupted,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'infinite duration.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a state of infinite or indefinitely long duration.

The land was given to the family in perpetuity.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45