Eternal

Definition

Eternal refers to something that lasts forever, without beginning or end. It is often used to describe concepts related to time, existence, and the infinite, such as immortality, timelessness, or perpetuity.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈtɜrnəl/
• Respelling: ih-TUR-nl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈtɜːnəl/
• Respelling: ih-TUR-nl

The pronunciation of "eternal" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "eternal" comes from the Latin word "aeternus," meaning "without beginning or end, everlasting." This term is derived from "aevum," meaning "age" or "lifetime," which is linked to the concept of eternity.

Derivatives

• Eternity (noun)
• Eternally (adverb)
• Endless (adjective)
• Everlasting (adjective)
• Timeless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Everlasting
• Timeless
• Infinite

Antonyms

• Temporary
• Finite
• Ephemeral

Usage

The word "eternal" is often used in religious, philosophical, and poetic contexts to describe the concept of unending existence or timelessness. It is also used metaphorically to describe feelings or relationships that are perceived as enduring forever.

Related Terms

• Immortal: Living forever, never dying or decaying.
• Perpetual: Never ending or changing; occurring repeatedly.
• Unending: Having or seeming to have no end; infinite.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Lasting forever; without end or beginning: Describes something that exists outside the bounds of time, without any limit in duration.
  • Example: "The universe is often described as eternal, with no beginning and no end."
• Timeless; not affected by the passage of time: Refers to something that remains unchanged or relevant throughout time.
  • Example: "The eternal truths of philosophy are still relevant today."
• Continuing indefinitely; perpetual: Refers to something that continues without interruption or end.
  • Example: "Their love was described as eternal."