Synonyms of perennial

perennial

adjective

pə-ˈre-nē-əl 

as in enduring

having an existence or validity that does not change or diminish

her perennial pessimism was really starting to annoy her coworkers

Synonyms & Similar Words

• enduring
• ongoing
• immortal
• eternal
• perpetual
• continuing
• lasting
• abiding
• timeless
• everlasting
• ageless
• endless
• constant
• undying
• permanent
• imperishable
• ceaseless
• dateless
• unchanging
• changeless
• stationary
• unvarying
• stable
• steady

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• obsolete
• archaic
• antiquated
• outmoded
• outdated
• outworn
• out-of-date
• dated
• passé

Synonym Chooser

How is the word perennial different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of perennial are constant, continual, continuous, incessant, and perpetual. While all these words mean "characterized by continued occurrence or recurrence," perennial implies enduring existence often through constant renewal.

a perennial source of controversy

When could constant be used to replace perennial?

While in some cases nearly identical to perennial, constant implies uniform or persistent occurrence or recurrence.

lived in constant pain

Where would continual be a reasonable alternative to perennial?

Although the words continual and perennial have much in common, continual often implies a close prolonged succession or recurrence.

continual showers the whole weekend

When would continuous be a good substitute for perennial?

The words continuous and perennial can be used in similar contexts, but continuous usually implies an uninterrupted flow or spatial extension.

football's oldest continuous rivalry

In what contexts can incessant take the place of perennial?

In some situations, the words incessant and perennial are roughly equivalent. However, incessant implies ceaseless or uninterrupted activity.

annoyed by the incessant quarreling

When can perpetual be used instead of perennial?

The words perpetual and perennial are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perpetual suggests unfailing repetition or lasting duration.

a land of perpetual snowfall

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of perennial

It had been turned into a perennial garden in the 1930s using funding from the Works Progress Administration, but was torn down when construction began on the Obama Center. —Sara Tenenbaum, CBS News, 11 June 2026

Most sunflowers are annuals, but the perennial species (Heliopsis helianthoides) are perfect for growing in containers. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 June 2026

The tall, purple-pink, feathery, fragrant spikes of lavender create a pretty perennial border when grown in zones 5 to 9. —Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 10 June 2026

How To Harvest Rosemary For Winter While rosemary is a perennial herb that is hardy to USDA plant hardiness zone 8, it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 9 June 2026

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!