adjective / noun
permanent
PUR-muh-nuhnt/ˈpɜːrmənənt/
Lasting indefinitely or intended to remain unchanged.
The old iron railing is now a permanent part of the tree.
Etymology
“Through” and “stay” combine in the idea of staying to the end or holding out. From describing something remaining, permanent came to describe something enduring or intended to last indefinitely.
In context
permanent indoor food production from a plant lasting decades, goji berry is the ultimate investment.
More examples
- The shelter helps families find permanent housing.
- She accepts a permanent position after working as a temporary employee.
- A permanent gives her straight hair lasting curls.
Forms
permanent · more permanent · most permanent · permanents
permanently adverb — In a lasting or unchanging way.
permanence noun — The state of lasting without change.