eternally

American

[ih-tur-nl-ee] / ɪˈtɜr nl i /

adverb

in a way that is ceaseless, endless, or perpetual.

We call on all citizens to be eternally vigilant in ensuring that human rights are protected and sustained.
in a way that is enduring and unchanging.

The couple is eternally grateful for the support shown by their community.
Metaphysics. in a way that exists outside of time, without beginning or end.

I worry I will be eternally tormented in hell, or at the very least punished severely here on earth.

Other Word Forms

noneternally adverb
quasi-eternally adverb

Etymology

Origin of eternally

eternal ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Barcelona's eternally unfinished Sagrada Familia has grown to become the world's tallest church, but a conflict with residents threatens to delay the finish date for the monument designed over 140 years ago.

From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026

They are eternally simply themselves, grasped in a minute.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 4, 2026

The benefit of Tiafoe's situation was access to top-quality tuition, while Djokovic is eternally grateful for being nurtured by Jelena Gencic, who ran a tennis camp and developed his talent.

From BBC • Jan. 24, 2026

“We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind,” his family added.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 14, 2025

“I want to thank you for saving my life. I'll be eternally grateful to you.”

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023