longevity

noun

lon·​gev·​i·​ty län-ˈje-və-tē 

lȯn-

1

a

: a long duration of individual life

The members of that family are noted for their longevity.

b

: length of life

a study of longevity

2

: long continuance : permanence, durability

Longevity in office is also an asset …

—Spencer Parratt

Did you know?

As living conditions improve and the science of medicine advances, the longevity of the average American has increased greatly, from about 45 years in 1900 to over 75 years today. But the most impressive human longevity is nothing compared to the 400-year lifespan of an ocean clam found near Iceland, or the 5,000-year lifespan of the bristlecone pine, a tree found in the western U.S. We may use longevity to talk not only about actual lives but also of the useful "life" of things: the life of your car's tires or the shingles on your roof, for example.

Examples of longevity in a Sentence

His longevity was remarkable considering he had been so sick when he was a child.

Better medical treatment has led to greater longevity.

a study of human longevity

The longevity of a car's tires depends on how the car is driven.

They're trying to increase the product's longevity.

Recent Examples on the Web

Perhaps what really sold me on the concealer is its longevity. — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 1 July 2026

Something is very wrong with modern longevity science—and a new book claims that many of the world’s oldest people aren’t so old after all. — Hannah Jocelyn, New Yorker, 1 July 2026

Re-creating that sense of nostalgia at this new family spot became as integral to its design as comfort and longevity. — Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 30 June 2026

Its advanced thermal solution keeps it cool even when under heavy use, extending its longevity and stability. — George Yang, PC Magazine, 1 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin longaevitas, from Latin longaevus long-lived, from longus long + aevum age — more at aye

First Known Use

1569, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for longevity

• brevity
• levity

Kids Definition

longevity

noun

lon·​gev·​i·​ty län-ˈjev-ət-ē 

lȯn-

1

: long life or continuance

2

: length of life

Medical Definition

longevity

noun

lon·​gev·​i·​ty län-ˈjev-ət-ē, lȯn- 

plural longevities

1

: a long duration of individual life

attributed his longevity to daily exercise and a healthy diet

2

: length of life

studies in longevity