persistence

noun

per·​sis·​tence pər-ˈsi-stən(t)s How to pronounce persistence (audio)
-ˈzi-
Synonyms of persistence
1
: the action or fact of persisting
2
: the quality or state of being persistent
especially : perseverance

Synonyms of persistence

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Examples of persistence in a Sentence

He admired her dogged persistence in pursuing the job. His persistence in asking for a raise was finally rewarded. She has shown a lot of persistence.
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Of course, the persistence of traders to keep doubling down on AI could also be a sign of a bubble. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2026 Passion opens the door, but sustainability requires strong partnerships, financial discipline, persistence and good operations. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 15 Oct. 2026 The figures underscore the lingering impact of the Iran war on gas prices and the stubborn persistence of inflation, which has ticked higher since the war began in late February. — Christopher Rugaber, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026 The memoir is about the persistence of life in the face of death. — Sky Davis, Christian Science Monitor, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for persistence

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of persistence was in 1546

Rhymes for persistence

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Browse Nearby Words

persist
persistence
persistency
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Cite this Entry

“Persistence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persistence. Accessed 23 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

persistence

noun
per·​sis·​tence pər-ˈsis-tən(t)s How to pronounce persistence (audio)
-ˈzis-
1
: the act or fact of persisting
2
: the quality of being persistent

More from Merriam-Webster on persistence

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about persistence

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