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eternity

n.
US //iˈtɝnəti// UK //ɪtˈɜːnɪti// eter·ni·ty
  1. 1 infinite time (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Religion

    time that has no beginning and no end.

    infinite or unending time; existence without beginning or end.

    Example

    The stars seemed to have been shining there for all eternity.

    Example

    The philosopher argued that the soul exists in a state of eternity, untouched by the linear progression of human history.
  2. 2 life after death (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Religion

    the time that continues forever after a person dies.

    the state of existence or the remainder of time that follows death.

    Example

    In many religions, people believe their souls will spend eternity in heaven.

    Example

    The poet reflected on the transition from a mortal life to the vast silence of eternity.
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  1. 3 a very long time (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    a period of time that feels much longer than it actually is because you are bored or waiting.

    a hyperbolic reference to a long duration, typically used to express impatience or boredom.

    Example

    I waited for the bus for what felt like an eternity in the rain.

    Example

    To the anxious candidate, the three minutes spent waiting for the interview results felt like a literal eternity.
Origin

From Middle English eternyte, from Old French eternité, from Latin aeternitās. Displaced native Old English ēcnes.

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