persistence

noun

per·​sis·​tence pər-ˈsi-stən(t)s How to pronounce persistence (audio)
-ˈzi-
1
: the action or fact of persisting
2
: the quality or state of being persistent
especially : perseverance

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For the second straight season, Mahomes has done so largely due to his persistence, problem-solving ability and willingness to adjust his playing style to any game’s specific circumstances. Nate Taylor, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025 The persistence of market failure and agency expertise narratives, despite political failures and bureaucratic ineptitude being the true obstacles. Clyde Wayne Crews Jr., Forbes, 12 Jan. 2025 When a particular fact turns out to be sticky, persistence and attention, rather than any kind of special knowledge, are generally what’s needed. Fergus McIntosh, The New Yorker, 11 Jan. 2025 The sun’s harmonious connection to Saturn delivers an important life lesson on persistence and perseverance! USA TODAY, 4 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for persistence 

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of persistence was in 1546

Dictionary Entries Near persistence

Cite this Entry

“Persistence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persistence. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

persistence

noun
per·​sis·​tence pər-ˈsis-tən(t)s How to pronounce persistence (audio)
-ˈzis-
1
: the act or fact of persisting
2
: the quality of being persistent

More from Merriam-Webster on persistence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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