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

• abidance
• ceaselessness
• continuance
• continuation
• continuity
• continuousness
• durability
• duration
• endurance
• subsistence

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

Some bird species can be very precise, but do not necessarily maintain that persistence over time. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 1 May 2025

The key lies in a fast oscillating sheet known as a diffuser, onto which synchronous images are projected at high speed (2,880 images per second) and at different heights; human persistence of vision ensures that these images are perceived as true 3D objects. —ArsTechnica, 30 Apr. 2025

Hugo Lamy’s journey has spanned multiple continents, industries, and ventures, and is a testament to the power of innovation and persistence in turning dreams into reality. —Jason Phillips, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2025

No formal education, no training—just instinct, care and persistence. —Shekar Natarajan, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025

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