longevity

noun

lon·​gev·​i·​ty län-ˈje-və-tē 

lȯn-

1

a

: a long duration of individual life

The members of that family are noted for their longevity.

b

: length of life

a study of longevity

2

: long continuance : permanence, durability

longevity in office is also an asset

—Spencer Parratt

Did you know?

As living conditions improve and the science of medicine advances, the longevity of the average American has increased greatly, from about 45 years in 1900 to over 75 years today. But the most impressive human longevity is nothing compared to the 400-year lifespan of an ocean clam found near Iceland, or the 5,000-year lifespan of the bristlecone pine, a tree found in the western U.S. We may use longevity to talk not only about actual lives but also of the useful "life" of things: the life of your car's tires or the shingles on your roof, for example.

Examples of longevity in a Sentence

His longevity was remarkable considering he had been so sick when he was a child.

Better medical treatment has led to greater longevity.

a study of human longevity

The longevity of a car's tires depends on how the car is driven.

They're trying to increase the product's longevity.

Recent Examples on the Web

This discovery set her on a path of research and self-experimentation that ultimately led her to collaborate with top experts in longevity science. —Serenity Gibbons, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

These can strengthen your cells, boost eye health, help with muscle recovery, lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation, says longevity researcher Neil Paulvin. —Aditi Shrikant, CNBC, 31 Oct. 2024

Blunder suggests choosing a formula with a matte or satin finish and layering the crayon with a lip liner for extra longevity. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2024

This is particularly important for portability and overall system longevity. —Rob Pegoraro, PCMAG, 27 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin longaevitas, from Latin longaevus long-lived, from longus long + aevum age — more at aye

First Known Use

1569, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

longevity

noun

lon·​gev·​i·​ty län-ˈjev-ət-ē 

lȯn-

1

: long life or continuance

2

: length of life

Medical Definition

longevity

noun

lon·​gev·​i·​ty län-ˈjev-ət-ē, lȯn- 

plural longevities

1

: a long duration of individual life

attributed his longevity to daily exercise and a healthy diet

2

: length of life

studies in longevity