persistence

noun

per·​sis·​tence pər-ˈsi-stən(t)s How to pronounce persistence (audio)
-ˈzi-
Synonyms of persistencenext
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.
As Chicagoans were the first to emphasize, civilization is fragile, and its persistence should not be taken for granted. Daniel Holz, Chicago Tribune, 5 Apr. 2026 What stands out is a common thread of persistence and impact. Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 3 Apr. 2026 In cyber conflict, the quiet part – gaining access, establishing persistence and preparing for deployment – typically comes first. William Akoto, The Conversation, 2 Apr. 2026 Redditors React Her Reddit post on the subreddit channel r/cats quickly gained traction, with more than 5,800 reactions and 92 comments, as many users praised Alejandro’s persistence and called him a hero. Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Persistence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persistence. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

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

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