lifelong

The term "lifelong" describes something that lasts for the whole of a person's life. It is more than just long-lasting, because it points to something that stays with someone over many years, often from early life to old age. It can describe commitments, habits, interests, relationships, or goals that remain important over time.

You might hear about a lifelong resident of a town, someone who has lived there their whole life and feels closely connected to the community. Or perhaps a lifelong smoker, meaning a habit that started early and continued for decades. It is also often used for relationships: "They shared a lifelong bond" suggests a deep connection that lasted through many stages of life.

"Lifelong" is not limited to people or habits; it can also apply to personal aims and activities. A lifelong ambition might be to write a novel, travel the world, or master a skill. In this kind of use, the word highlights not only the goal itself but also the years of effort and care behind it.

The word often carries a sense of meaning and depth. It is not simply long-term; it suggests something that has played an important part in a person's life for many years. So when you encounter "lifelong," think of something that has remained part of a person's story across their whole life.