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

His speed and stamina levels were deceptive — while not always looking like a remarkable asset to the naked eye, the stats the club compiled said otherwise. —Simon Johnson, New York Times, 19 Feb. 2026

As spring progresses, the Dodgers will continue to dial them up with precaution, especially at the start of the season when more hands on deck are required because some pitchers are still building up their stamina. —Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026

Backcountry skiing is also inherently risky and challenging, requiring stamina, preparation, and skill. —Noe Padilla, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026

Cross-country skiers require muscle and stamina when traveling up and down snow hills during competition. —Sheryl Devore, Chicago Tribune, 18 Feb. 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