stamina

noun

stam·​i·​na ˈsta-mə-nə 

1

: the bodily or mental capacity to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity : endurance

a workout program that builds strength and stamina

These horses are bred for speed and stamina.

The use of pharmaceuticals to enhance memory, focus, and mental stamina in healthy brains is known generally as cognitive enhancement …

—Paul McFedries

2

: the moral or emotional strength to continue with a difficult process, effort, etc. : staying power

The network of obligations to family and community underpinned the soldier's moral stamina …

—Joseph Allan Frank

Examples of stamina in a Sentence

Do you have the stamina to finish the job?

Recent Examples on the Web

Gamble put her players through a series of drills to test their stamina, quickness and technique. —Steve Galluzzo, Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 2026

The perseverance required to work through technical challenges taught me resilience, while long rehearsals built stamina and discipline. —Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 19 Apr. 2026

In turbulent times, Europe needs someone with stamina. —Margrethe Vestager, Time, 15 Apr. 2026

Meanwhile, Curry is 38 and is trying to regain his stamina after missing over two months with runner’s knee. —Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, plural of stamen warp, thread of life spun by the Fates

First Known Use

1726, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for stamina

• lamina

Kids Definition

stamina

noun

stam·​i·​na ˈstam-ə-nə 

: vigor sense 1, endurance

Medical Definition

stamina

noun

stam·​i·​na ˈstam-ə-nə 

: the strength or vigor of bodily constitution : capacity for standing fatigue or resisting disease

restoration of weight, strength and stamina following recovery from major surgery

—The Journal of the American Medical Association