impermanence etymology

Etymology

  • Impermanence: Late 17th century (in the sense ‘the state of being impermanent’). From impermanent + -ence.

Origin of word 'Impermanence': The word "impermanence" is derived from the Latin word "impermanens", which means "not lasting". It is formed by the prefix "im-" (meaning "not") and the present participle of the verb "manere" (meaning "to remain"). The word was first used in English in the late 17th century, and it has since been used to describe the Buddhist concept of anitya, or the "impermanence of all things".

Meaning

  • Impermanence is the state or fact of lasting for only a limited period of time; transience.
  • In Buddhism, it refers to the fact that all things are subject to change and decay.

Origin in Buddhism

The concept of impermanence is central to Buddhism. It is one of the three marks of existence, along with suffering and non-self. The Buddha taught that all things are impermanent, meaning that they are constantly changing and will eventually cease to exist. This includes our own bodies, minds, and experiences.

Understanding the impermanence of all things can help us to let go of attachment and desire. It can also help us to be more compassionate towards ourselves and others, knowing that we are all impermanent beings.

impermanence relate terms

  • impermanent

    Etymology The word impermanent comes from the Latin word impermanens which means not

  • permanent

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  • mortality

    Etymology mort Latin death alitas Latin quality of Meaning Mortality refers

  • duration

    Etymology Latin duratio length continuance From the verb durare to endure las

  • length

    Etymology From Middle English length from Old English lencð from Proto Germanic la

  • skeptic

    Etymology Latin scēpticus from Greek skeptikos inquiring derived from skeptesth

  • abyss

    Etymology The word abyss comes from the Greek word ἄβυσσος abyssos which m

  • canon

    Etymology The word canon originates from the Greek word kanōn meaning rule or m

  • cardigan

    Etymology The word cardigan comes from the name of a British general James Thomas Bru

  • universe

    Etymology of Universe The word universe derives from the Old French univers which

  • gang

    Etymology Early 19th century shortened form of gangrel from Middle English gangrel f