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

• continuation
• continuity
• continuance
• continuousness

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

Your experience illustrates the importance of persistence and following up. —Christopher Elliott The Travel Troubleshooter, Sun Sentinel, 30 June 2025

The theme is echoed in videos exploring contemporary Australian bark-cloth painting, and the persistence of masquerade traditions across Africa. —Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 30 June 2025

After a day of persistence on the photographer’s part and under the glowing gold of the late evening light, her patience paid off when this plucky primate emerged onto the scene, likely leading the troop in search of food. —Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025

These photos of the struggle for equality and justice, curated by Vintage Tribune editor Marianne Mather, depict the passion and persistence of everyday Chicagoans. —Colleen Kujawa, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 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