persistence
noun
per·sis·tence
pər-ˈsi-stən(t)s 
-ˈzi-
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
The distorting design of the Senate and the Electoral College, the filibuster’s persistence, and centralized leadership have all contributed to legislative ossification.
—
Duncan Hosie, The Atlantic, 13 Jan. 2026
Twenty years of hard work and persistence, blessed by occasional moments when chance had generously smiled on him.
—Literary Hub, 12 Jan. 2026
In this milieu, Rubio’s persistence stands out.
—Dexter Filkins, New Yorker, 12 Jan. 2026
Despite Williams' persistence to get Ann-Margret cast as the lead, the playwright died in February 1983, one year before the movie came out.
—Angela Andaloro, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for persistence
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.
Cite this Entry
“Persistence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persistence. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
Kids Definition
persistence
noun
per·sis·tence
pər-ˈsis-tən(t)s
-ˈzis-
1
: the act or fact of persisting
2
: the quality of being persistent
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
