Perpetuity

/pərˈpɛtʃuɪti/ noun

Definition

The quality of lasting forever or indefinitely; something that continues without end.

Etymology

From Latin 'perpetuitas,' derived from 'perpetuus' (continuous, eternal), from 'perpetim' (continuously). The term became important in property law and contracts.

Kelly Says

Legal documents often grant things 'in perpetuity'—like land trusts or endowments—but perpetuity has driven some weird situations: the 'Perpetual Stew' in an old English pub kept the same pot simmering for over a century by constantly adding new ingredients to old broth!

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