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

Pending that, the Ukraine loan could roll over in perpetuity and not be considered Ukraine’s debt.

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Burial plots are leased for a fixed term, or in perpetuity.

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At the time these lands were a part of the Great Sioux Reservation, guaranteed to the Lakotas in perpetuity.

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After he was gone, they worked to secure the movement’s enduring power by consciously turning Reagan into a mythic figure whose ideas would live on in perpetuity.

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“If we say it’s in perpetuity, it’s a little bit harder to stomach,” he said.

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