persevere
verb
per·se·vere
ˌpər-sə-ˈvir 
persevered; persevering
: to persist in a state, enterprise, or undertaking in spite of counterinfluences, opposition, or discouragement
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The early settlers of the New World persevered in the face of constant hardship and danger. The Pilgrims of Plymouth Plantation lost half their number in the first winter to disease and hunger, but their perseverance paid off, and within five years their community was healthy and self-sufficient. Perhaps more remarkable are all the solitary inventors who have persevered in pursuing their visions for years, lacking any financial support and laughed at by the public.
Examples of persevere in a Sentence
She persevered in her studies and graduated near the top of her class.
Even though he was tired, he persevered and finished the race.
Recent Examples on the Web
Just a few hours before the show, a torrential downpour threatens to halt the event, but Victoria perseveres.
—
Ellise Shafer, Variety, 9 Oct. 2025
Of all the fandoms, the Swifties have persevered and prospered.
—Choire Sicha, CNN Money, 6 Oct. 2025
The Peranakan are a cultural group based in Singapore and Southeast Asia that originated when people from the surrounding regions (including China and India) married local Malays, creating a unique blend of cultures that has persevered from the 15th century to modern-day Singapore.
—Elizabeth See, AFAR Media, 2 Oct. 2025
Every human being deserves empathy and understanding, especially one as flawed and broken yet persevering as Young Thug.
—Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone, 29 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for persevere
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Ellise Shafer, Variety, 9 Oct. 2025
Of all the fandoms, the Swifties have persevered and prospered.
—Choire Sicha, CNN Money, 6 Oct. 2025
The Peranakan are a cultural group based in Singapore and Southeast Asia that originated when people from the surrounding regions (including China and India) married local Malays, creating a unique blend of cultures that has persevered from the 15th century to modern-day Singapore.
—Elizabeth See, AFAR Media, 2 Oct. 2025
Every human being deserves empathy and understanding, especially one as flawed and broken yet persevering as Young Thug.
—Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone, 29 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for persevere
Cite this Entry
“Persevere.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persevere. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.
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persevere
verb
per·se·vere
ˌpər-sə-ˈvi(ə)r
persevered; persevering
: to keep at something in spite of difficulties, opposition, or discouragement
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