Persistence

/pərˈsɪstəns/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The quality of continuing steadily despite problems or difficulties.
Her persistence in studying paid off when she passed the difficult exam.
The continued or prolonged existence of something.
The persistence of the species in a changing environment is remarkable.
In computing, the characteristic of data that outlives the execution of the program that created it.
The persistence of user data in the database ensures it is available for future sessions.

Etymology

From Latin 'persistentia', from 'persistere', meaning 'to stand firm'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

persistent effort
Continual and steady effort toward a goal.
persistence pays off
Enduring effort often leads to success.
dogged persistence
Stubborn determination to achieve something.

Related Words

perseverance
Steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
determination
Firmness of purpose; resoluteness.
tenacity
The quality or fact of being able to grip something firmly; grip.

Slang Meanings

Stick-to-it-iveness
He showed stick-to-it-iveness in finishing the marathon.
Keeping at it
Her keeping at it attitude helped her get through tough times.