Annual

Definition

Annual can function as both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes something that occurs once every year or lasts for a single year. As a noun, it refers to a plant that completes its life cycle in one year or a publication that is issued once per year.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈænjuəl/
• Respelling: AN-yoo-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈænjuəl/
• Respelling: AN-yoo-uhl

The pronunciation of "annual" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "annual" originates from the Latin word "annus," meaning "year." The term entered Middle English in the late 14th century through Old French "annual," relating to yearly occurrences or events.

Derivatives

• Annually (adverb)
• Annuitant (noun)
• Annuity (noun)
• Biennial (adjective)
• Perennial (adjective/noun)

Synonyms

• Yearly
• Perennial (for some contexts)
• Once-a-year

Antonyms

• Daily
• Monthly
• Biannual

Usage

The term "annual" is widely used to describe events, publications, or occurrences that happen once every year, such as "The annual report was released in December" or "Roses are not annual plants."

Related Terms

• Yearly: Occurring or done every year.
• Periodic: Occurring at regular intervals.
• Anniversary: The yearly recurrence of a date marking a notable event.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Occurring once every year: Describes an event, activity, or phenomenon that takes place yearly.
  • Example: "The company hosts an annual meeting each January."
• Lasting for a single year: Refers to something that completes its cycle or duration within one year.
  • Example: "Some flowers are annual plants, requiring replanting each year."

Noun

• A plant that completes its life cycle in one year: Used to describe plants that germinate, grow, flower, and die within a single year.
  • Example: "Marigolds are common garden annuals."
• A publication issued once a year: Refers to a book, report, or magazine that is published annually.
  • Example: "The school’s annual yearbook was distributed in May."