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Definition of persist

persist

/pərˈsɪst/
per · sist
Adverb:persistently
•
Adjective:persistent
•
Past Simple:persisted
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Past Participle:persisted
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Present Participle:persisting
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persist Lexical Profile

persist Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To continue firmly or obstinately in an opinion or a course of action in spite of difficulty, opposition, or failure.

Example

"Even after several failed experiments, the research team chose to persist in their investigation."

2

To continue to exist or be prolonged beyond the usual, expected, or normal time.

Example

"If the fever and cough persist for more than three days, you should consult a doctor."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for persist
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for persist

• Nearby Words

persian buttercup
persicaria
persimmon
persist
persistence
persistency
persistent

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from French persister, from Latin persistere ('to continue steadfastly'), formed from per- ('thoroughly') and sistere ('to stand firm').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Persist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/persist
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