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Eternally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eternally

[ɪˈtəːn(ə)li ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

infinite time

For all time; forever. Continuing or valid for an infinite or indefinitely long period.

Synonyms

endlessly, forever, permanently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
eternally

Used to emphasize a state or condition that lasts without end, often in a poetic or rhetorical sense.

  • She believed that their love would last eternally.
  • The stars seem to burn eternally in the night sky.
forever

Commonly used to indicate a very long period of time that feels equivalent to an infinite duration. Often used in everyday language.

  • I will love you forever.
  • It seems like we've been waiting here forever.
permanently

Used when referring to something intended to last indefinitely without change, typically in a practical or literal sense.

  • She decided to permanently move to the city.
  • The ink left a mark that was permanently stained on the paper.
endlessly

Used to describe something that appears to go on without end, often with an implication of monotony or boredom.

  • The teacher's lecture seemed to go on endlessly.
  • They walked through the forest, feeling as if the path stretched endlessly before them.

Examples of usage

  • Their love for each other will be eternally remembered.
  • The beauty of the sunset seemed eternally captivating.
Context #2 | Adjective

lasting forever

Lasting or existing forever; without end or beginning. Continuing without interruption; perpetual.

Synonyms

endless, everlasting, perpetual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
eternally

Used to express a state or condition that lasts forever or for an infinitely long time, often with an emotional or poetic undertone.

  • I will love you eternally.
  • The stars seemed to shine eternally in the night sky.
endless

Used to describe something that appears to have no end, typically in a literal or metaphorical sense. Often used in situations of tedium or overwhelming abundance.

  • The desert stretched out before them, an endless expanse of sand.
  • She couldn't stand the endless meetings at work.
perpetual

Used to describe something that continues without interruption, often suggesting a sense of annoyance or tedium, but can also imply timelessness.

  • He lived in perpetual fear of being discovered.
  • The machine operated in perpetual motion.
everlasting

Often used in religious, poetic, or ceremonial contexts to describe something that lasts forever without change.

  • They vowed to share an everlasting love.
  • The Bible speaks of an everlasting life.

Examples of usage

  • The eternally burning flame symbolized eternal life.
  • Their bond was eternally unbreakable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophy, eternity is often contrasted with time, referring to a state outside of temporal limits.
  • Different philosophical traditions, like Stoicism and Neoplatonism, explored concepts of eternal truths and ideal forms.
  • Some believe that eternal life is an achievable state, both spiritually and materially, often discussed in religious contexts.

Literature

  • Shakespeare often used the theme of eternity in poetry, expressing love that transcends time.
  • Writers like Emily Dickinson reflected on the idea of eternal moments and their meanings in her work.
  • In modern literature, the concept explores themes of immortality and the human desire to leave a lasting impact.

Science

  • The universe is often perceived as having an eternal existence, leading to discussions on cosmic time scales.
  • In physics, time is relative; however, in some theories, certain elements of space-time might be viewed as eternal.
  • Debates in cosmology about the beginning of the universe touch on the idea of 'eternal inflation', suggesting our universe might always have existed in some form.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous songs and films explore the theme of eternal love, such as 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind', which dives into timeless connection.
  • The phrase 'until the end of time' commonly appears in romantic narratives, signifying perpetual devotion.
  • Eternity is often depicted in fantasy genres with immortal beings, emphasizing endless adventures and timeless stories.

Origin of 'eternally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'aeternalis', which means 'everlasting'.
  • Originally, it has roots in 'aeternus', meaning 'eternal' – reflecting the concept of timelessness.
  • The prefix 'etern-' signifies a sense of unchanging nature through time.

The word 'eternally' originates from the Latin word 'aeternus', meaning 'eternal'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. The concept of eternity has been a subject of philosophical and religious discussions throughout history, symbolizing the infinite and timeless nature of existence.

See also: eternals, eternity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,182, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.