# perpetuity

/ˌpɝpɪtˈjuɪti/ (US) · /pəpɪtjˈuːɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/perpetuity
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a state that lasts forever or for a very long time. In business, it often refers to a type of investment that pays you money every year for the rest of your life.

For teachers: a state of being or a condition that continues indefinitely. In a financial context, it refers to a type of investment or annuity that provides a fixed income for the lifetime of the recipient.

## Examples

- The company bought a bond that pays interest in perpetuity.
- The charity received a donation that will provide a steady stream of income in perpetuity to support its local projects.
- While many investors prefer the security of a fixed-term bond, others seek the stability of an annuity that offers a guaranteed income in perpetuity, regardless of market fluctuations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.