lifelong

adjective

life·​long ˈlīf-ˌlȯŋ 

1

: lasting or continuing through life

a lifelong friendship

2

: long-standing

Examples of lifelong in a Sentence

He had a lifelong love of nature.

Recent Examples on the Web

For kids, though, learning about rockets can mark an amazing introduction, sparking a lifelong love of space. — Grace Dean, Space.com, 16 Aug. 2026

Infants with the condition may have lifelong complications and may need a heart transplant if the defect is complex, or if the heart weakens after surgery, according to the federal health agency. — Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 14 Aug. 2026

Strukel shared that visitors have met lifelong friends and even spouses while staying at the Jacumba hotel. — Madeleine Kashkooli, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026

On Peacock’s Married at First Sight, singles ready to find a lifelong partner take the ultimate leap of faith by marrying a complete stranger in the hope of building a real future together. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lifelong

• evensong
• livelong
• overlong
• vietcong
• agung
• along
• belong
• birdsong
• furlong
• headlong
• headstrong
• plainsong

Kids Definition

lifelong

adjective

life·​long ˈlī-ˌflȯŋ 

: continuing or lasting through life

a lifelong love for trees

a lifelong friendship