Eternal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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eternal
[ɪˈtəːnl ]
Definitions
time
lasting or existing forever; without end or beginning.
Synonyms
endless, everlasting, immortal, perpetual, timeless.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| eternal |
Used to describe something that has no end or exists forever, often used in a more formal or philosophical context.
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| everlasting |
Typically used in religious or poetic contexts to describe something that lasts forever.
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| perpetual |
Describes something that continues indefinitely without interruption, often used in a formal or technical context.
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| endless |
Often used to describe something that feels like it has no end, usually in a more informal or emotional context.
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| immortal |
Used to describe someone or something that cannot die or is not subject to death, often in a mythic or literary context.
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| timeless |
Used to describe something that is not affected by the passage of time, often in a positive or artistic sense.
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Examples of usage
- Eternal love knows no bounds.
- The eternal beauty of nature.
- The eternal struggle between good and evil continues.
- The concept of eternal life.
- His eternal gratitude towards her.
religion
a timeless state of being, often associated with the afterlife in religious beliefs.
Synonyms
afterlife, eternity, everlasting life, immortality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| eternal |
Used to describe something that lasts forever with no end; often used in philosophical or poetic contexts.
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| eternity |
Denotes an infinite or unending time period; used in both philosophical and everyday conversations.
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| everlasting life |
A term often used in religious contexts to describe a blessing of eternal existence, typically in a positive, heavenly sense.
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| immortality |
Refers to the concept of living forever; often used in myths, legends, or discussions about the human condition and science fiction.
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| afterlife |
Refers to life after death; commonly used in religious or spiritual discussions.
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Examples of usage
- The promise of eternal salvation.
- The belief in eternal damnation.
- Seeking eternal peace.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Many philosophers have debated ideas about eternal truths, which are concepts believed to be universally valid, regardless of time.
- The notion of eternity plays a key role in various philosophical discussions regarding life, time, and existence.
Religion
- In many religions, such as Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, the concept of eternal life is central, promising life after death.
- In Buddhism, achieving a state of eternal peace or enlightenment is considered the ultimate goal.
Literature
- Eternal themes such as love, memory, and mortality often recur in literature, reflecting the human quest for lasting meaning.
- Shakespeare’s works frequently explore the idea of eternal beauty through sonnets, suggesting that art can preserve life’s fleeting moments.
Science
- In cosmology, scientists ponder whether the universe is eternal or if it has an end point, leading to debates on the nature of time and space.
- Theoretical physics contemplates concepts like eternal inflation, suggesting the universe may continuously create new realms.
Origin of 'eternal'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'aeternus', which means 'everlasting' or 'unending'.
- It is a combination of the roots 'aeon', meaning age, and the suffix '-al', indicating nature or quality.
The word 'eternal' originated from the Latin word 'aeternus', meaning 'lasting forever'. Over time, it has been used in various contexts such as love, life, and the afterlife, symbolizing the concept of infinity and timelessness. The idea of eternal existence has been a recurring theme in philosophy, literature, and religious beliefs, reflecting humanity's fascination with the perpetual and unending.