a. [ F. éternel, L. aeternalis, fr. aeternus. See Etern. ] 1. Without beginning or end of existence; always existing. [ 1913 Webster ] The eternal God is thy refuge. Deut. xxxiii. 27. [ 1913 Webster ] To know wether there were any real being, whose duration has been eternal. Locke. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Without end of existence or duration; everlasting; endless; immortal. [ 1913 Webster ] That they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. 2 Tim. ii. 10. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. Continued without intermission; perpetual; ceaseless; constant. [ 1913 Webster ] And fires eternal in thy temple shine. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. Existing at all times without change; immutable. [ 1913 Webster ] Hobbes believed the eternal truths which he opposed. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ] What are the eternal objects of poetry among all nations, and at all times? M. Arnold. [ 1913 Webster ] 5. Exceedingly great or bad; -- used as a strong intensive. “Some eternal villain.” [ 1913 Webster ]
The Eternal City, an appellation of Rome.
Syn. -- Everlasting; endless; infinite; ceaseless; perpetual; interminable. See Everlasting. [ 1913 Webster ] | 
