permanent

American  

[pur-muh-nuhnt] / ˈpɜr mə nənt /

adjective

1. existing perpetually; everlasting, especially without significant change.

   Synonyms:

   constant, invariable, stable

   Antonyms:

   inconstant, temporary

2. intended to exist or function for a long, indefinite period without regard to unforeseeable conditions.

   a permanent employee; the permanent headquarters of the United Nations.

3. long-lasting or nonfading.

   permanent pleating; permanent ink.

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noun

1. Also called permanent wave.  a wave or curl that is set into the hair by the application of a special chemical preparation and that remains for a number of months.

permanent British  

/ ˈpɜːmənənt /

adjective

1. existing or intended to exist for an indefinite period

   a permanent structure

2. not expected to change for an indefinite time; not temporary

   a permanent condition

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Other Word Forms

• nonpermanent adjective
• nonpermanently adverb
• permanently adverb
• permanentness noun
• pseudopermanent adjective
• quasi-permanent adjective
• quasi-permanently adverb
• subpermanent adjective
• subpermanently adverb
• unpermanent adjective
• unpermanently adverb

Etymology

Origin of permanent

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin permanent-, stem of permanēns “remaining,” present participle of permanēre “to remain”; see per-, remain

Explanation

Something that’s permanent is constant and lasting, as opposed to temporary. Think twice about writing in permanent marker or getting a tattoo — both are just about impossible to erase. If you wait around for something permanent to change, you'll be there for a long time — maybe forever. That's because the adjective permanent is used to describe something that continues on into the foreseeable future without shifting, moving, or changing at all. You might also come across the noun permanent, which refers to a chemical treatment used to curl your hair. But please know that "perms" aren't really cool anymore.

Example Sentences

Tech stocks are finding a boost from the progress, however slow, toward a permanent cease-fire with Iran.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

The permanent move to Stamford Bridge marks a new era for Chelsea's women as they experience a period of transition.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Eighteen percent reported that it led to a life-threatening event or required an intervention to prevent permanent harm.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 22, 2026

People who are granted a U visa can qualify for lawful permanent resident status, known as a green card, after three years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

Mrs. Contreras remained hopeful that Danny would find a permanent home.

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova

Related Words

• durable
• enduring
• long-lasting
• perpetual
• stable