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durance

noun
du·​rance | \ ˈdu̇r-ən(t)s also ˈdyu̇r- How to pronounce durance (audio) \

Definition of durance

1 archaic : endurance
2 : restraint by or as if by physical force —usually used in the phrase durance vile

First Known Use of durance

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for durance

Middle English, duration, from Anglo-French, from durer to last from Latin durare

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The first known use of durance was in the 15th century

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More from Merriam-Webster on durance

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about durance

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