impermanence

noun

im·​per·​ma·​nence (ˌ)im-ˈpər-mə-nən(t)s How to pronounce impermanence (audio)
-ˈpərm-
: the quality or state of being impermanent

Examples of impermanence in a Sentence

the ancient Roman ruins are a telling reminder of the impermanence of even the grandest man-made constructions
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The April cherry trees, with their brief pink opulence, seem infused with the spirit of mono no aware—the Japanese idea of the transience of things, the gentle sadness yet also the beauty of impermanence. Lauren Groff, The Atlantic, 20 Aug. 2025 The impermanence of these structures, contrasted with the enduring river, is a reminder of history's ebb and flow. Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2025 Willed into existence by a dream rather than nature, there is something about its unique vulnerability to natural disasters that reflects its intrinsic sense of impermanence and optimism. Ella Berman august 7, Literary Hub, 7 Aug. 2025 For all the impermanence — packing up and relocating just about every two years — Hutson said his upbringing was in many ways ideal, shaping his outlook to this day. Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for impermanence

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impermanence was in 1796

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Cite this Entry

“Impermanence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impermanence. Accessed 7 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

impermanence

noun
im·​per·​ma·​nence (ˈ)im-ˈpərm(-ə)-nən(t)s How to pronounce impermanence (audio)
: the quality or state of being impermanent
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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