sempiternal
Say it: sem-pih-TUR-nul /ˌsɛmpɪˈtɜːnəl/ · adjective
What “sempiternal” means
Lasting forever, without changing.
More precisely: Eternal and unchanging; lasting forever.
Example: “The sempiternal debate over pineapple on pizza resumed at the team lunch.”
When to use it
In elevated or literary language, for something imagined as eternal, or jokingly for something seemingly endless.
Memory trick
Latin semper means always: imagine something that carries on for ever.
Similar words
eternal, everlasting, timeless
Where it comes from
Latin semper 'always' and aeternus 'eternal'.
Quick check
A legend describes a flame that burns for ever and never changes. How would you describe that flame?
temporary or sempiternal?
Show the answer
sempiternal
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