permanent

[ pur-muh-nuhnt ]

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.

noun

1. Also called permanent 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

/ 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

Derived Forms

• ˈpermanently, adverb

Other Words From

• perma·nent·ly adverb
• perma·nent·ness noun
• non·perma·nent adjective
• non·perma·nent·ly adverb
• pseudo·perma·nent adjective
• quasi-perma·nent adjective
• quasi-perma·nent·ly adverb
• sub·perma·nent adjective
• sub·perma·nent·ly adverb
• un·perma·nent adjective
• un·perma·nent·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of permanent¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of permanent¹

C15: from Latin permanens continuing, from permanēre to stay to the end, from per- through + manēre to remain

Example Sentences

Perhaps the reality is a more permanent threat on the eastern fringes of Europe.

From BBC

Just outside, the expensive new building under construction for the museum’s permanent collection is taking shape, designed for a misguided plan for theme show displays.

From Los Angeles Times

The upturn in performance and results has only strengthened the case for Slegers to become the permanent manager.

From BBC

Chris: "Many Dutch people considered the Delta Works a permanent solution, but according to Johan they were always meant as a necessary step in a process. Today, we need a new long-term vision."

From Science Daily

As devolution rose and fell, he was a permanent fixture on the UTV evening news programme.

From BBC

Related Words

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