αιώνιος
Lemma: αιώνιος
Translation: eternal; everlasting; perpetual; timeless (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek αἰώνιος (aiōnios), from αἰών (aiōn) meaning 'age, lifetime, eternity'. The root αἰών shares the same Indo-European root as Latin 'aevum' and English 'ever'. The concept literally means 'lasting for an age' but came to mean 'eternal' in both classical and modern usage.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'eon' (very long period) + '-ios' (making it an adjective)
- Remember the phrase 'for eons and eons' to connect with the English cognate
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in religious contexts, particularly in Orthodox Christian liturgy and texts. Also common in literary and philosophical discourse when discussing concepts of permanence and immortality.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While αιώνας means 'century' or 'age', αιώνιος is the adjective meaning 'eternal'
Confused word:
Ζούμε στον 21ο αιώνα.
We live in the 21st century.
Notes: The adjective αιώνιος is derived from the noun αιώνας, but has a stronger sense of permanence
Mnemonic: αιώνας (noun) = century/age, αιώνιος (adjective) = lasting forever