time immemorial

noun

1

: time so long past as to be indefinite in history or tradition

called also time out of mind

2

: a time antedating a period legally fixed as the basis for a custom or right

Examples of time immemorial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Then a twist of fate and tragedy casts the subhuman nature of this treatment in a fresh light, and Alma, with a terrible new understanding, does what grown women for time immemorial have done. —Alison Willmore, Vulture, 14 May 2025

The word first appeared as a verb and interjection in the 19th century, though the sound itself goes back to time immemorial. —Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025

The mysterious nature of twins — particularly identical twins — has been a devious source of curiosity and fascination in Hollywood for time immemorial. —Barry Levitt, Vulture, 18 Apr. 2025

One of the most iconic and well-loved colors on the infamous wheel, blue has been a staple in fashion and decor for time immemorial. —Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 8 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for time immemorial

• ambassadorial
• combinatorial
• conspiratorial
• gladiatorial
• gubernatorial
• inquisitorial
• mediatorial
• multifactorial
• prosecutorial
• supratentorial
• arboreal
• armorial

Legal Definition

time immemorial

noun

time im·​me·​mo·​ri·​al

-ˌi-mə-ˈmȯr-ē-əl

1

: a time beyond legal memory formerly fixed by English law as the beginning of the reign of Richard I in 1189 but modified in common law

2

: a time going back beyond the memory of any living person