perpetuate

[ per-pech-oo-eyt ]

verb (used with object)

, per·pet·u·at·ed, per·pet·u·at·ing.

1. to enable or allow the continuation of into the future; keep alive (used most often in reference to something considered harmful or false): Vines obscured a plaque intended to perpetuate her memory.

   Social media played a significant role in perpetuating political divisions.

   Vines obscured a plaque intended to perpetuate her memory.

2. to preserve from extinction or oblivion: perpetuate the species.

   to perpetuate one's name;

   perpetuate the species.

   Synonyms: sustain, save, preserve, maintain

perpetuate

/ pəˈpɛtjʊˌeɪt /

verb

1. tr to cause to continue or prevail

   to perpetuate misconceptions

Usage

See perpetrate

Derived Forms

• perˌpetuˈation, noun

Other Words From

• per·pet·u·a·ble adjective
• per·pet·u·a·tion [per-pech-oo-, ey, -sh, uh, n], per·pet·u·ance [per-, pech, -oo-, uh, ns], noun
• per·pet·u·a·tor noun
• un·per·pet·u·a·ble adjective
• un·per·pet·u·at·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of perpetuate¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin perpetuātus (past participle of perpetuāre, derivative of perpetuus “uninterrupted”); perpetual, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of perpetuate¹

C16: from Latin perpetuāre to continue without interruption, from perpetuus perpetual

Example Sentences

"While they may generate sympathy and donations, they perpetuate damaging stereotypes that stifle Africa's economic growth, tourism, and investment, ultimately costing the continent trillions and destroying its dignity, pride and identity."

From BBC

The focus on public safety also perpetuates prejudices and fear, which increases popular support for coercive measures like involuntary treatment.

From Salon

“While there are differences among folks, we can build communities that reflect and honor and celebrate those differences instead of alienating and perpetuating historical wrongs.”

From Los Angeles Times

In other words, what might have seemed like a mutually convenient layby into which Ms Gray could be shunted, ended up perpetuating a rather public soap opera.

From BBC

As a result, we have enforced knowledge hierarchies that perpetuate information silos.

From Salon

Related Words

• bolster
• maintain
• preserve