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1644, from Latin perennis (lasting through the whole year), from per- (through) + annus (year) + -al; equivalent to per- +‎ -ennial.



perennial (not comparable)

  1. Lasting or remaining active throughout the year, or all the time.
    a perennial stream
  2. (botany, of a plant) Having a life cycle of more than two years. Compare annual, biennial.
  3. (figuratively) Continuing without cessation or intermission; perpetual; permanent; unceasing; never failing.
  4. (figuratively) Enduring; lasting; timeless.
    His artwork has a perennial beauty.
  5. (figuratively) Recurrent; appearing or recurring again and again.
    Change is a perennial theme in politics.

Derived terms[edit]




perennial (plural perennials)

  1. A perennial plant; a plant that is active throughout the year or survives for more than two growing seasons. Compare annual, biennial.