impermanence

noun

im·​per·​ma·​nence (ˌ)im-ˈpər-mə-nən(t)s How to pronounce impermanence (audio)
-ˈpərm-
: the quality or state of being impermanent

Examples of impermanence in a Sentence

the ancient Roman ruins are a telling reminder of the impermanence of even the grandest man-made constructions
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.
Buddhism teaches impermanence as a path to compassion and non-attachment. Greg Orme, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025 Bringing this piece to the Bangkok Experimental Film Festival is important because this city, this region, understands impermanence. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 22 Jan. 2025 In its charred outside, we its impermanence, and also the contradiction that a charred piece of wood is more fireproof than a living tree. Tom Teicholz, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 Cherry blossoms, fall leaves, and seasonal changes provide visual metaphors for impermanence. Martine Paris, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for impermanence

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impermanence was in 1796

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Cite this Entry

“Impermanence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impermanence. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

impermanence

noun
im·​per·​ma·​nence (ˈ)im-ˈpərm(-ə)-nən(t)s How to pronounce impermanence (audio)
: the quality or state of being impermanent
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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