Persistere

Persistere is a Latin verb meaning to stand fast, endure, persist, or persevere. It can denote physical steadfastness—holding one’s ground against pressure—as well as figurative persistence in actions, resolve, or decisions. The sense of continuing to exist or remaining in a state is also present in its usage.

Etymology and form: persistere is formed from the prefix per- “through, thoroughly” and sistere “to cause to stand, to stand,” related to stare “to stand.” The verb is of the third conjugation and has the infinitive persistere, with standard third-conjugation patterns for its tenses and voices.

Usage and nuance: in classical and late Latin, persistere covers a range from literal endurance to moral or strategic perseverance. It often conveys continuing in a course of action in spite of obstacles or resisting change. As a synonym, it overlaps with durare “to endure” and perseverare “to persevere,” while nuances may differ depending on context, such as remaining in a state, maintaining a position, or continuing an effort.

Translation and context: English renderings include “to persist,” “to endure,” “to persevere,” and “to remain (in a state).” The term appears in texts discussing steadfastness, persistence in undertaking tasks, or the continuation of conditions over time.

See also: perseverance, persistence, Latin verbs of motion and state. For further detail, consult a standard Latin dictionary such as Lewis and Short.