eternity

noun

eter·​ni·​ty i-ˈtər-nə-tē How to pronounce eternity (audio)
plural eternities
1
: the quality or state of being eternal
2
: infinite time
lasting throughout eternity
3
eternities plural : age sense 3b
4
: the state after death : immortality
5
: a seemingly endless or immeasurable time
an eternity of delays

Examples of eternity in a Sentence

They believed that sinners would spend eternity in hell. We suffered through an eternity of delays during the lawsuit.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After an extended absence that felt like an eternity for Milwaukee Bucks’ fans, Khris Middleton's return couldn’t have come at a better time. Brian Sampson, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024 The legal jousting over the recounts went on for what seemed an eternity — with key decisions bouncing around between Florida state and federal courts. Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 5 Nov. 2024 Named after the Titan Atlas from Greek mythology, who was condemned to hold up the sky for eternity as punishment from Zeus, the Atlas moth is renowned for its impressive wingspan, vibrant colors, and intricate wing patterns. Chadd Scott, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024 The job market can be tough, and the wait to hear back about all-important applications can feel like an eternity, but one recruiter's message to an inquiring applicant has stunned internet users. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for eternity 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English eternite, from Middle French eternité, from Latin aeternitat-, aeternitas, from aeternus

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of eternity was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near eternity

Cite this Entry

“Eternity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eternity. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

eternity

noun
eter·​ni·​ty i-ˈtər-nət-ē How to pronounce eternity (audio)
plural eternities
1
: the quality or state of being eternal
2
: endless time
3
: the state after death : immortality
4
: time that seems to be endless

More from Merriam-Webster on eternity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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