The word "perpetual" means something that is continuous, everlasting, or never-ending. It describes a state or condition that persists indefinitely, without interruption or cessation. For example, a perpetual motion machine is a hypothetical machine that can operate indefinitely without an external energy source.
The term "perpetual" comes from the Latin word "perpetuus," which means "continuous, unceasing." It is derived from "per-" (through) and "petere" (to seek or aim for).