noun a plant that lives for more than two years
adjective lasting or existing for a long or apparently infinite time; enduring or continually recurring
In botany, perennial refers to plants that live for more than two years, often blooming annually.
In ecology, perennial rivers flow year-round, unlike seasonal or intermittent rivers.
In agriculture, perennial crops such as fruit trees provide long-term food production.
In climate science, perennial ice refers to ice that remains frozen year-round, such as in polar regions.
In gardening, perennial plants are those that return year after year, providing consistent beauty in a garden.
In the literary world, 'perennial' is often used to describe books or authors that remain popular and relevant over a long period of time. For example, Shakespeare's works are considered perennial classics.
Psychologists may use the term 'perennial' to describe certain mental health issues or patterns that persist or recur over a person's lifetime, such as chronic depression or anxiety.