intemporel
/ɛ̃.tɑ̃.pɔ.ʁɛl/
The English word 'timeless' is translated into French as intemporel.
This adjective describes something that does not decrease in quality or appeal over time.
Meaning: not decreasing over time in quality and appeal (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the prefix in- (meaning not or un-) and temporel (meaning temporal or relating to time).
How does it change in a sentence?
Use the feminine singular intemporelle for feminine nouns, such as une beauté intemporelle (a timeless beauty). Use the masculine plural intemporels for multiple masculine nouns or a mixed group, and the feminine plural intemporelles for multiple feminine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ɛ̃.tɑ̃.pɔ.ʁɛl/. It has 4 syllables.
Did you know?
- While intemporel describes a classic style, the word intempéries shares the same root and refers to harsh weather or the elements.
- In French philosophy and theology, intemporel is often distinguished from éternel. While 'eternal' implies an infinite duration, 'timeless' implies existing completely outside of time.
- The word temporel in French can also mean 'secular' or 'worldly' in a religious context, as opposed to 'spiritual'.
Examples in context
- « Les confessions » de Saint-Augustin nous content une histoire intemporelle de quête intellectuelle se concluant par l'orthodoxie.Saint Augustine's "Confessions" tells a timeless tale of intellectual search ending in orthodoxy.This sentence uses intemporel to describe a tale.Tatoeba #2042008 by sacredceltic, translation #2041969 by halfb1t
- Cette chanson est intemporelle.This song is timeless.This sentence uses intemporel to describe a song.Tatoeba #13153227 by menaud, translation #10338293 by Hybrid
- Les photos noir et blanc sont intemporelles.Black and white photos are timeless.This sentence uses intemporel to describe black and white photos.Tatoeba #13152797 by menaud, translation #12078989 by Amastan
- La beauté intemporelle de cette peinture m'émeut profondément.The timeless beauty of this painting deeply moves me
- Le ballet était d'une beauté éternelle.The ballet was of eternal beauty
- Cette robe noire est vraiment indémodable.This black dress is truly timeless
- La musique de Mozart est vraiment intemporelle.Mozart's music is truly timeless
- 9 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hugo and Emma are browsing in an antique clothing boutique.
- HugoCe manteau a un style intemporel.This coat has a timeless style.
- EmmaOui, il est vraiment élégant.Yes, it is truly elegant.
- HugoJe pense que je vais l'acheter.I think I am going to buy it.
- EmmaC'est un excellent choix pour toi, Hugo.It is an excellent choice for you, Hugo.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “timeless” translations and entries intemporel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
