eternity, long, lengthy
永 centers on something that stretches far in time: eternal, long-lasting, or lengthy. It conveys the idea of duration without a clear end.
永 is a pictograph of a long, flowing stream of water, symbolizing something that continues without end. The modern form retains the water-like strokes extended to suggest length.
The shape looks like water 水 with an extra long stroke on top, like a river that flows forever. Picture an eternal stream stretching into the distance.
For エイ, imagine an eternal letter 'A' that never fades: A -> エイ, lasting forever like the kanji's meaning.
eternity; perpetuity; permanence; immortality
eternity; permanence; perpetuity
permanence; continuation
permanent residence
eternity; perpetuity; permanence
forever; everlastingly; for many years to come; ever
Nagata-chō (Japan's political center; equiv. of Downing Street)
eternal sleep; eternal rest; passing away; death
many years; a long time
semipermanence
permanence; eternity
forevermore; for eternity
Kan'ei era (1624.2.30-1644.12.16)
eternity; perpetuity; immortality; permanence
eternity; perpetuity
An'ei era (1772.11.16-1781.4.2)
Hōei era (1704.3.13-1711.4.25)
Ōei era (1394.7.5-1428.4.27)
to have a long life; to live a long time
long day (esp. of spring)