noun
many generations; for generations
Refers to a long span of time covering multiple generations. Often used in literary or formal contexts to describe traditions, family lines, or historical continuity.
その神社は世々にわたって守られてきた。
That shrine has been protected for many generations.
世々の教えを今に伝える。
Passing down the teachings of many generations to the present.
Variant spelling without the iteration mark; less common but still used.
代々 is more common and neutral for 'for generations', especially in family or business contexts. 世々 is more literary and emphasizes the passage of eras rather than just lineage.
Reduplication of 世 (せ, 'generation, world') with the reading せぜ (or the older せいせい). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the form is used to express a long span of generations.