eternity

noun

eter·​ni·​ty i-ˈtər-nə-tē 

plural eternities

1

: the quality or state of being eternal

2

: infinite time

lasting throughout eternity

3

eternities plural : age sense 3b

4

: the state after death : immortality

5

: a seemingly endless or immeasurable time

an eternity of delays

Synonyms

• everlasting
• foreverness
• infinity
• perpetuity

Examples of eternity in a Sentence

They believed that sinners would spend eternity in hell.

We suffered through an eternity of delays during the lawsuit.

Recent Examples on the Web

Named after the Titan Atlas from Greek mythology, who was condemned to hold up the sky for eternity as punishment from Zeus, the Atlas moth is renowned for its impressive wingspan, vibrant colors, and intricate wing patterns. —Chadd Scott, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024

The job market can be tough, and the wait to hear back about all-important applications can feel like an eternity, but one recruiter's message to an inquiring applicant has stunned internet users. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 2 Dec. 2024

Whether an alternative engagement ring style, a wedding band, anniversary band, or simply a luxurious ring to wear on any finger, there are also scores of natural diamond eternity bands in every conceivable diamond shape, weighing up to a total 4 carats. —Ashley Davis, WWD, 26 Nov. 2024

In what may have felt like an eternity, Ricks managed to snap a couple of photos and video from a safe distance before the snake recoiled and slithered upwards into the engine again. —Karen Bartunek, The Arizona Republic, 13 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English eternite, from Middle French eternité, from Latin aeternitat-, aeternitas, from aeternus

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

eternity

noun

eter·​ni·​ty i-ˈtər-nət-ē 

plural eternities

1

: the quality or state of being eternal

2

: endless time

3

: the state after death : immortality

4

: time that seems to be endless