forever

UK: fəˈrevə | US: fərˈevər

Definition

  1. adv. for all future time; eternally

  2. adv. continually; persistently

Structure
fore <before>ever <always>
Etymology

forever = fore<before> + ever<always>

  • fore (from Old English fore, meaning "before" or "in front of")
  • ever (from Old English ǣfre, meaning "always" or "at any time")

Etymology Origin:
The word "forever" combines "fore" (indicating precedence or duration) and "ever" (denoting continuity). Originally used in Middle English as two separate words ("for ever"), it later merged into a single term emphasizing endless time. The logic mirrors the concept of stretching time infinitely forward ("before" + "always").

Examples

  1. She promised to love him forever.

  2. The stars seem to shine forever in the night sky.

  3. He waited forever for the bus to arrive.

  4. This memory will stay with me forever.

  5. They argued forever about the same topic.