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• outdated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• out-of-date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

Third baseman José Ramírez, a perennial American League MVP candidate whose name resides near the top of countless franchise leaderboards, is nearing a long-term extension that would keep him in Cleveland through his 40th birthday, a league source told The Athletic. —Zack Meisel, New York Times, 24 Jan. 2026

Then there’s a whole variety of new or increased fees for things such as using recreational centers, obtaining fishing permits and parking downtown, all of which are aimed at helping close the city’s perennial budget shortfalls. —Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Jan. 2026

Several sports companies may list their shares this year including perennial favorite SeatGeek, the ticketing company focused on live events. —Luisa Beltran, Sportico.com, 23 Jan. 2026

Rival discounter Frontier Airlines of Denver, a perennial suitor, has fallen short of reaching a deal on multiple occasions. —David Lyons, Sun Sentinel, 22 Jan. 2026

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