Perseverances

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The act of continuing to strive toward a goal despite difficulties or obstacles encountered along the way; the quality of maintaining effort and persistence in the face of challenges; demonstrating unwavering determination and resilience to achieve a desired outcome
2. Engaging in sustained effort to overcome adversity or achieve objectives, regardless of setbacks faced; a characteristic that reflects a steadfast commitment to one's goals; showcasing the ability to endure and keep fighting toward success
3. The ongoing process of maintaining effort and determination despite hardships encountered during a pursuit; a trait that embodies continual striving despite failures; exemplifying both resolve and the ability to push through difficulties to reach goals

Etymology: "Perseverances" is simply the plural of "perseverance," so the history belongs to that noun. It reached English from Old French "perseverance," which itself came from the Latin "persevērantia," a noun built from the verb "persevērare," meaning to persist or continue steadfastly. The Latin verb was formed from "per," meaning through or thoroughly, and "severus," meaning serious or strict, so the original sense carries a flavour of pressing through with grim seriousness. In English the word appeared in Middle English as "perseveraunce," and it has long been understood as the English noun "persevere" with the suffix "-ance" attached, which turns a verb into a noun of action or quality. The plural form "perseverances" is less common than the singular, and it is usually used when speaking of several separate acts or instances of steadfast effort.

Synonyms: persistence, tenacity, determination, endurance, steadfastness

Antonyms: capitulation, yielding, surrender, giving up, abandonment