impermanence

American  

[im-pur-muh-nuhns] / ɪmˈpɜr mə nəns /

Rarely impermanency

noun

1. the fact or quality of being temporary or short-lived.

   The novel poignantly explores the impermanence of childhood—the ebb and flow of memories and experiences that make up our disappearing past.

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Etymology

Origin of impermanence

First recorded in 1790–1800; equivalent to im- ² ( def. ) + permanence ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

impermanence

It leaves this three-match series against Pakistan with a feeling of impermanence, not unlike Root's last tour as captain in the West Indies in 2022.

From BBC ● Aug. 18, 2026

As they change color, wither and flame out, they remind us of the beauty of life, and of life’s impermanence.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 16, 2025

But that impermanence is also what makes the holidays so special.

From Salon ● Oct. 15, 2025

Or, as Long put it, “embracing the rare imperfections and impermanence of it all.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 8, 2025

I want to be back in the motel, back on the road, in my old rootless life of impermanence and safety.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood

Related Words

• anxiety
• fluctuation
• insecurity
• uncertainty
• volatility
• vulnerability
• weakness