lifetime
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈlaɪf.taɪm/
KK: /ˈlaɪfˌtaɪm/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the entire duration of a person's life or the time something lasts.
Example
She made a lifetime commitment to help others in need.
Conversation
I just started a new hobby that I hope will last a lifetime.
That sounds exciting! What is it?
I'm learning to play the guitar; I always wanted to do it for a long time.
That's awesome! Music can really be a lifetime passion.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
enduring
perpetual
everlasting
Antonyms
temporary
transient
fleeting
noun
Definition
The time during which a person or thing exists or is alive.
Example
She traveled to many countries during her lifetime.
Conversation
I just read a book about achievements in a person's lifetime.
That sounds interesting! What was the main point?
It talked about how small decisions can lead to big changes over a lifetime.
Root Explanation
Lifetime → It is formed from "life" (from Old English "līf", meaning existence or living) and "time" (from Old English "tīma", meaning a period or duration). The word "lifetime" refers to the duration of a person's life or the period during which something exists.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'life' as the existence we experience and 'time' as the duration we measure — together, they help you remember that 'lifetime' means the duration of a person's life.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.