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• outdated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• out-of-date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

The perennial issue of homelessness became a theme during a lively discussion following Kao’s presentation. —Steven Mihailovich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Sep. 2025

This wasn’t the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, or a perennial contender like the Kansas City Chiefs, or the AFC East juggernaut Buffalo Bills. —Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 7 Sep. 2025

Caruso likened the Vandals to North Dakota State and South Dakota State, two of the perennial powers in the FCS. —Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 5 Sep. 2025

Add perennial mint plants around the edge of your vegetable garden to deter squirrels. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 4 Sep. 2025

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!