Synonyms of perennial

perennial

adjective

pə-ˈre-nē-əl 

as in enduring

having an existence or validity that does not change or diminish

her perennial pessimism was really starting to annoy her coworkers

Synonyms & Similar Words

• enduring
• ongoing
• immortal
• eternal
• perpetual
• continuing
• lasting
• abiding
• timeless
• everlasting
• ageless
• endless
• constant
• undying
• permanent
• imperishable
• ceaseless
• dateless
• unchanging
• changeless
• stationary
• unvarying
• stable
• steady

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• obsolete
• archaic
• antiquated
• outmoded
• outdated
• outworn
• out-of-date
• dated
• passé

Synonym Chooser

How is the word perennial different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of perennial are constant, continual, continuous, incessant, and perpetual. While all these words mean "characterized by continued occurrence or recurrence," perennial implies enduring existence often through constant renewal.

a perennial source of controversy

When could constant be used to replace perennial?

While in some cases nearly identical to perennial, constant implies uniform or persistent occurrence or recurrence.

lived in constant pain

Where would continual be a reasonable alternative to perennial?

Although the words continual and perennial have much in common, continual often implies a close prolonged succession or recurrence.

continual showers the whole weekend

When would continuous be a good substitute for perennial?

The words continuous and perennial can be used in similar contexts, but continuous usually implies an uninterrupted flow or spatial extension.

football's oldest continuous rivalry

In what contexts can incessant take the place of perennial?

In some situations, the words incessant and perennial are roughly equivalent. However, incessant implies ceaseless or uninterrupted activity.

annoyed by the incessant quarreling

When can perpetual be used instead of perennial?

The words perpetual and perennial are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perpetual suggests unfailing repetition or lasting duration.

a land of perpetual snowfall

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of perennial

Fall is generally the best time to divide perennial plants that flower in the spring or summer months, while fall-blooming perennials should be divided in early spring, when the first shoots start to emerge. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 29 Sep. 2025

Best Restaurants Alcalde Alcalde is the crown jewel of Guadalajara’s impressive dining scene, a perennial World’s 50 Best Restaurants favorite from chef Paco Ruano, a Guadalajara native who trained at some of Europe’s finest establishments. —David Shortell, Travel + Leisure, 28 Sep. 2025

His coaching methods have evolved with experience, just as the Panthers have evolved into perennial contenders over the past few years. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 28 Sep. 2025

By choosing as protagonists two people writing about loneliness and identity — perennial themes in immigrant fiction — Desai aims to make well-trodden terrain her own. —Sanjena Sathian, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2025

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!