everlasting
UK[ˌevəˈlɑːstɪŋ]US[ˌevərˈlæstɪŋ]
adj
Lasting forever or for a very long time.
n
A flower that retains its shape and color when dried.
Morpheme Breakdown
ever
lasting
ever
ever, always
lasting
to follow, perform, last
Etymology
The word 'everlasting' is a transparent compound formed within English from its native Germanic elements. The adverb 'ever', implying "at all times" or "always", is combined with the present participle 'lasting', which denotes enduring continuance. This literal combination, "always-lasting", directly and logically conveys the sense of infinite or perpetual duration. While its components trace back to Proto-Germanic (aiw- for "ever" and laistijaną for "to follow a track"), the compound itself illustrates the productive capacity of English to create powerful abstract concepts from simple, concrete roots.
Analysis
Structure: ever + lasting
- ever: From Old English 'æfre', meaning "ever, always". It functions as an intensifying adverb in this compound.
- lasting: From Old English 'læstan', meaning "to follow, perform, last". It functions as the core adjective meaning "continuing for a long time".
Examples
The poet wrote of their everlasting love.
They promised everlasting friendship.
She decorated the wreath with everlastings.