Perpetuated: meaning, definitions and examples

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perpetuated

 

[ pərˈpɛtʃueɪtɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

causing something

To perpetuate means to cause something to continue or prevail indefinitely. This term is often used in the context of ideas, practices, or situations that are maintained over time, especially those that may be harmful or negative. In essence, it involves ensuring that a certain state or condition does not come to an end. The idea of perpetuation is frequently associated with issues such as societal norms, stereotypes, and traditions. Thus, when something is perpetuated, it contributes to its ongoing existence and influence.

Synonyms

continue, maintain, preserve, sustain

Examples of usage

  • They perpetuated the myth for generations.
  • The decision will perpetuate inequality.
  • He felt that his actions were perpetuating the problem.
  • We should not perpetuate stereotypes about certain groups.

Translations

Translations of the word "perpetuated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perpetuado

🇮🇳 स्थायी

🇩🇪 verewigt

🇮🇩 diperpetukan

🇺🇦 перpetuirovano

🇵🇱 utrwalony

🇯🇵 永続させた

🇫🇷 perpétué

🇪🇸 perpetuado

🇹🇷 sürdürülmüş

🇰🇷 영속된

🇸🇦 مُستمر

🇨🇿 zachován

🇸🇰 zachovaný

🇨🇳 延续的

🇸🇮 perpetuiran

🇮🇸 varan

🇰🇿 ұзақ мерзімді

🇬🇪 გრძელვადიანი

🇦🇿 davamlı

🇲🇽 perpetuado

Etymology

The word 'perpetuate' comes from the Latin 'perpetuare', which means 'to make perpetual'. This Latin term is derived from 'perpetuus', meaning 'continuous' or 'uninterrupted', composed of 'per-' meaning 'through' and 'petere' meaning 'to seek'. The verb began to appear in the English language during the late 15th century, evolving from its Latin roots as scholars and writers began to adopt classical vocabulary. In English, 'perpetuate' originally referred to the act of causing something to continue indefinitely, particularly in reference to cultural practices and historical narratives. Over time, the term has become associated with both positive and negative connotations, as it can describe the maintenance of beneficial traditions as well as the continuation of harmful stereotypes or injustices. This duality in meaning reflects the complexity of human culture and the impact of choices made by individuals and societies.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,434, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.