What does "longevity" mean?

1. (long life) a long life for a person, animal, or plant. 2. (lasting a long time) the ability of something to last or stay successful for many years.

How do you use "longevity"?

Often used with the preposition 'of'. Commonly used in business and engineering contexts to describe success or durability.

longevity

US //ɫɔnˈdʒɛvəti// UK //ləndʒˈɛvɪti// longevi·ty

1 long life (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal

a long life for a person, animal, or plant.

the length or duration of an individual's life, specifically referring to a long lifespan.

Example

The island is famous for the longevity of its people, many of whom live past one hundred.

Example

Medical researchers are investigating whether specific genetic markers contribute more to human longevity than environmental factors like diet and exercise.

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'of'.
- lifespan
- durability
2 lasting a long time (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal

the ability of something to last or stay successful for many years.

the capacity of an object, career, or institution to persist or remain functional over an extended period.

Example

The longevity of the band's career is impressive in such a fast-changing industry.

Example

The architect prioritised structural longevity, selecting materials that could withstand the corrosive effects of the coastal salt air for decades.

Usage

Commonly used in business and engineering contexts to describe success or durability.
- transience
- short livedness

Origin

Early 17th century, learned borrowing from Latin longaevitās, from longaevus (“ancient, aged”) + -itās. The first part is related to English long and this association led to the alternative pronunciation with /ŋ/.