endurance

noun

en·​dur·​ance in-ˈdu̇r-ən(t)s How to pronounce endurance (audio)
-ˈdyu̇r-
en-
Synonyms of endurancenext
1
: the ability to withstand hardship or adversity
especially : the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity
a marathon runner's endurance
2
: the act or an instance of enduring or suffering
endurance of many hardships
3
: permanence, duration
the endurance of the play's importance

Examples of endurance in a Sentence

The exercise program is designed to increase both strength and endurance. the endurance of his love for his wife was not arrested even by her death
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Mushroom blends may support focus, endurance, and stress resilience over coffee alone. Sarah Garone, Health, 8 Dec. 2025 Next-gen mobility EngineAI’s T800 is a full-size humanoid robot designed for high mobility, endurance, and versatile task performance. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 8 Dec. 2025 To archaeologists, Issyk-Kul is not just a lake but a time capsule, where each artifact, whether a millstone or a skeleton, reveals echoes of trade, faith, and endurance along the Silk Road. Pranjal Malewar, New Atlas, 6 Dec. 2025 The art form is near and dear to Bradley, who has the physical endurance of ballet within her genes. Malik Peay, Essence, 4 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for endurance

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of endurance was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Endurance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endurance. Accessed 14 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

endurance

noun
en·​dur·​ance in-ˈd(y)u̇r-ən(t)s How to pronounce endurance (audio)
1
: the quality of lasting or of being permanent
2
: the ability to withstand hardship, adversity, or stress
athletes need to develop endurance
3
: suffering sense 1
endurance of many hardships

More from Merriam-Webster on endurance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!