perpetuity

[pur-pi-too-i-tee, -tyoo-]

noun

plural

perpetuities 

1. the state or character of being perpetual (often preceded byin ).

   to desire happiness in perpetuity.

2. endless or indefinitely long duration or existence; eternity.

3. something that is perpetual.

4. an annuity paid for life.

5. Law.,  an interest under which property is less than completely alienable for longer than the law allows.

perpetuity

/ ˌpɜːpɪˈtjuːɪtɪ /

noun

1. eternity

2. the state or quality of being perpetual

3. property law a limitation preventing the absolute disposal of an estate for longer than the period allowed by law

4. an annuity with no maturity date and payable indefinitely

5. for ever

Other Word Forms

• nonperpetuity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of perpetuity¹

1375–1425; late Middle English perpetuite < Latin perpetuitās. See perpetual, -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of perpetuity¹

C15: from Old French perpetuite, from Latin perpetuitās continuity; see _perpetual

Example Sentences

“We are humbled to be among the stewards of his remarkable legacy, which will continue to guide the Institute in perpetuity.”

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“We may not ever again get federal funding, so you have to fundraise the money to fill that gap in perpetuity,” she said.

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“Gang injunctions are not intended to last for perpetuity; they are designed and implemented to correct criminal behavior.”

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Label boss Scott Borchetta gave the unproven singer a big cash advance in exchange for having ownership of the master recordings to her first six albums "in perpetuity".

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And that fame train seemed destined to circle the globe in perpetuity.

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