Persistent

Definition

Persistent describes something that continues firmly or obstinately in an action or opinion, especially despite difficulty, opposition, or failure. It can also refer to something that endures or lasts for a long time.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pərˈsɪstənt/
• Respelling: pur-SIST-uhnt (with "pur" as in "fur," "SIST" as in "sister," and "uhnt" as in "hunt")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈsɪstənt/
• Respelling: pur-SIST-uhnt (similar to American English, with "pur" as in "fur," "SIST" as in "sister," and "uhnt" as in "hunt")

In both dialects, "persistent" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "SIST." The pronunciation reflects typical regional variations in vowel sounds and pronunciation style between American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of the "SIST" part.

Etymology

The adjective "persistent" is derived from the Latin verb "persistere," meaning "to continue with strength." "Persistere" itself combines "per-" (meaning "through") and "sistere" (meaning "to stand").

Derivatives

• Persistently
• Persist
• Persistence
• Persistency
• Persisting

Synonyms

• Tenacious
• Steadfast
• Resolute

Antonyms

• Fleeting
• Ephemeral
• Transient

Usage

"Persistent" is frequently used to describe behaviors, characteristics, or conditions that are ongoing and show no sign of abating. It often carries a positive connotation, especially when describing a person's determination or willpower, but can also be neutral or negative when referring to unwanted or harmful conditions that do not go away.

Related Terms

• Persevere
• Endure
• Constant
• Continuous
• Unyielding

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Continuing firmly or obstinately in an action, course, or opinion, especially in spite of difficulty or opposition.
• Example: "He admired her persistent determination to succeed."

• Lasting or enduring for a long time; not fading or going away.
• Example: "There was a persistent smell of damp in the room."

• Recurring or repetitive, especially when unwanted or problematic.
• Example: "She had a persistent cough that wouldn't go away."