Definition of permanent

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per·ma·nent    (pûrm-nnt) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:

1. Lasting or remaining without essential change: "the universal human yearning for something permanent, enduring, without shadow of change" (Willa Cather).
2. Not expected to change in status, condition, or place: a permanent address; permanent secretary to the president.

NOUN:

Any of several long-lasting hair styles usually achieved by chemical applications which straighten, curl, or wave the hair.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French, from Latin permanns, permanent- present participle of permanre, to endure : per-, throughout ; see per- + manre, to remain; see men-³ in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
perma·nent·ly(Adverb), perma·nent·ness(Noun)