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• outdated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• out-of-date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

If your grandma loved planting tomatoes in her perennial beds, then tomatoes should be a part of your grandma garden! — The Spruce, 4 Aug. 2026

An animal story set in motion by the basest human impulses—though also distinguished by some of our best—the novel is tied deeply into both ancient literary tradition and tragically perennial concerns. — Rachel Vorona Cote, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026

Meanwhile, perennial bestsellers like gray and black will anchor the collection. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 29 July 2026

Yet from July 3, 2025, until Clase, too, was placed on leave on July 28, the perennial All-Star acted as if nothing was brewing. — Zack Meisel, New York Times, 28 July 2026

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