endless

UK: ˈɛndləs | US: ˈɛndləs

Definition

  1. adj. having no end; infinite or seemingly infinite in duration

  2. adj. continuous without interruption

  3. adj. (informal) extremely large or numerous

Structure
end <termination>less <without>
Etymology

The word "endless" combines the Old English root "end" (meaning termination or boundary) with the suffix "-less" (derived from Old English "-lēas," meaning "without"). The suffix "-less" is commonly used to negate the root it attaches to, creating adjectives that describe the absence of something. Over time, "endless" evolved from its literal sense of "having no end" to broader metaphorical uses, such as describing something vast or immeasurable. The logic is straightforward: if something lacks an end, it is perpetual or boundless.

Examples

  1. The desert stretched before them in endless waves of sand.

  2. Her patience seemed endless, even in the most frustrating situations.

  3. The meeting felt endless, dragging on for hours without resolution.

  4. The universe is often described as endless, though its true nature remains a mystery.

  5. He scrolled through an endless list of options, unable to decide.