impermanence

noun

im·​per·​ma·​nence (ˌ)im-ˈpər-mə-nən(t)s 

-ˈpərm-

: the quality or state of being impermanent

Synonyms

• transience
• temporariness
• shortness
• transitoriness
• ephemerality
• transiency
• evanescence
• impermanency
• fleetingness
• momentariness

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

Inspired by Bengali wedding tents and incorporating four sculptural capsules, this pavilion looks at themes of impermanence, light, and connection. —Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025

Yet, Fujimoto also notes that impermanence has always been a feature of Japanese architecture. —Hanako Montgomery, CNN Money, 10 Apr. 2025

Each work is like a small celebration of the nature of existence, its curious assembly and, of course, its impermanence. —Y-Jean Mun-Delsalle, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025

In the study, participants in the High Awareness and Acceptance (HAA) group, who accepted impermanence, demonstrated better mental health outcomes, supporting the idea that acceptance of life’s impermanence may act as a protective factor for mental health. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for impermanence

• permanence

Kids Definition

impermanence

noun

im·​per·​ma·​nence (ˈ)im-ˈpərm(-ə)-nən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being impermanent