perseverance

[ pur-suh-veer-uhns ]

noun

1. steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

   Synonyms: steadfastness, doggedness

2. Theology. continuance in a state of grace to the end, leading to eternal salvation.

perseverance

/ ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns /

noun

1. continued steady belief or efforts, withstanding discouragement or difficulty; persistence
2. Christianity persistence in remaining in a state of grace until death

Derived Forms

• ˌperseˈverant, adjective

Other Words From

• per·se·ver·ant adjective
• non·per·se·ver·ance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of perseverance¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English perseveraunce, from Middle French perseverance, from Latin persevērantia; persevere, -ance

Synonym Study

Perseverance, persistence, tenacity, pertinacity imply resolute and unyielding holding on in following a course of action. Perseverance commonly suggests activity maintained in spite of difficulties or steadfast and long-continued application: Endurance and perseverance combined to win in the end. It is regularly used in a favorable sense. Persistence, which may be used in either a favorable or an unfavorable sense, implies unremitting (and sometimes annoying) perseverance: persistence in a belief; persistence in talking when others wish to study. Tenacity, with the original meaning of adhesiveness, as of glue, is a dogged and determined holding on. Whether used literally or figuratively it has favorable implications: a bulldog quality of tenacity; the tenacity of one's memory. Pertinacity, unlike its related word, is used chiefly in an unfavorable sense, that of overinsistent tenacity: the pertinacity of the social climber.

Example Sentences

Perseverance during the past three years paid off, however, and the couple’s 1930’s detached house now has improved insulation, a heat pump, and an electric car charging point.

From BBC

“Fernando Valenzuela was always a humble person who, through perseverance and ability, managed to overcome difficult circumstances and become a great star of sports,” said Father Baudelio Magallanez García.

From Los Angeles Times

Moss started the season as an inspiring tale of perseverance.

From Los Angeles Times

Coaches and players have praised White for his professionalism and perseverance to return sooner than expected from an Achilles injury.

From Los Angeles Times

After Mastriano’s defeat, Kira noted, he literally compared himself to Abraham Lincoln, saying, “We are in it for the long haul. We often hear about Lincoln losing important races in his time. In the end God gave him the great victory because of perseverance. This movement is going to stay influential in this state.”

From Salon

Related Words

• dedication
• determination
• endurance
• grit
• moxie
• persistence
• spunk
• stamina
• steadfastness
• tenacity