püsivus

Püsivus is an Estonian term meaning durability, persistence, or permanence. It describes the quality of remaining constant over time and resisting decay, interruption, or change. The word derives from the adjective püsiv ('persistent', lasting), formed with the noun suffix -us.

In philosophy and the sciences, püsivus is used to discuss long-term stability and continuity of properties, processes, or systems. In materials science, a material with high püsivus maintains its characteristics under stress and over time. In ecology and sustainability studies, püsivus is linked to resilience and the capacity of ecosystems to absorb disturbances and continue functioning.

In psychology and everyday life, püsivus corresponds to perseverance or persistence: the tendency to continue pursuing goals despite difficulties, sometimes studied as a personality trait or motivational variable.

In information technology, püsivus is used in the sense of data persistence—the ability of information to remain accessible after power loss or program termination, typically achieved through storage systems.

Use and nuance: While püsivus is broadly positive, its interpretation depends on context; it may imply desirable stability or resistance to necessary change. In Estonian discourse, it is closely related to concepts of stabiilsus (stability) and jätkusuutlikkus (sustainability). See also durability, persistence, stability, and continuity.