persistence

noun

per·​sis·​tence pər-ˈsi-stən(t)s 

-ˈzi-

1

: the action or fact of persisting

2

: the quality or state of being persistent

especially : perseverance

Synonyms of persistence

• continuation
• continuity
• continuance
• continuousness

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.

Recent Examples on the Web

Recognition should acknowledge not only outcomes but also the discipline, persistence and relationship-building that led to them. — Karen Cochran, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Therefore, RedHook includes several persistence methods designed to keep Android from shutting it down. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 20 July 2026

Analysts said the persistence of such underlying weakness also raises the question of whether Chinese officials will turn to more fiscal stimulus to try and boost domestic spending. — Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 15 July 2026

This book shows the importance of persistence when refining a skill and remaining true to oneself. — Brooke Harris Garad, The Conversation, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for persistence

• assistance
• consistence
• desistance
• existence
• insistence
• resistance
• subsistence
• coexistence
• nonexistence
• distance
• magnetoresistance

Kids Definition

persistence

noun

per·​sis·​tence pər-ˈsis-tən(t)s 

-ˈzis-

1

: the act or fact of persisting

2

: the quality of being persistent