English Dictionary

Definition of “persist

persist (pəˈsɪstPronunciation for persist

Definitions

verb (intr)

  1. (often foll by in) to continue steadfastly or obstinately despite opposition or difficulty
  2. to continue to exist or occur without interruption  ⇒ the rain persisted throughout the night 

Alternative Forms

perˈsister noun

Word Origin

C16: from Latin persistere,  from per-  (intensive) + sistere  to stand steadfast, from stāre to stand

Synonyms

View thesaurus entry
= persevere, continue, go on, carry on, hold on, keep on, keep going press on, not give up stand firm soldier on, stay the course plough on be resolute stick to your guns show determination crack on,

Usage examples

  • But if you persist in this with the Jewish woman, I will do so.
    Sara MacDonald, SEA MUSIC (2003)
  • The campaign to restore Gwrych Castle for the benefit of the people of North Wales will persist , underlines Mr Baker.
    Country Life (2005)
  • Amazingly, millions of Americans persist in believing the whole thing was faked.
    canada.com (2004)
  • But still the racecourse whispers persist , often sparked by failed trainers.
    Sun, News of the World (2002)
  • It is not known whether such hormonal changes persist beyond the period of exercise long enough to make much difference for energy balance.
    McKay, Linda, Peak Energy (1988)

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