endurance

noun

en·​dur·​ance in-ˈdu̇r-ən(t)s 

-ˈdyu̇r-, 

en-

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

Synonyms of endurance

• continuity
• continuation
• persistence
• continuance
• continuousness

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

The aircraft features a clean-sheet design and incorporates a series hybrid-electric powertrain alongside dual tiltrotors, enabling greater range, endurance and operational efficiency than conventional electric VTOL platforms. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 23 July 2026

Raymond Braun is a broadcast host, writer, and endurance athlete. — Raymond Braun, Vogue, 23 July 2026

Investment portfolios must factor in endurance to outlast downturns along with traditional risk. — Carrie McCabe, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

His endurance as an affable leading man, capable of keeping the audience on the side of a textually hubristic war general, is likely to at least earn him a third Best Actor nomination. — Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing endurance

• beyond endurance

Kids Definition

endurance

noun

en·​dur·​ance in-ˈd(y)u̇r-ən(t)s 

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