Persistent

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /pɚˈsɪstənt/

Definitions

1. Showing firm determination that does not weaken despite obstacles ; lasting or remaining present for a long time without stopping
2. Continuing steadily in a course of action or purpose without giving up ; enduring or recurring over an extended duration
3. Displaying relentless perseverance or repeatedly doing something ; existing or persisting consistently through a lengthy period

Etymology: "Persistent" comes from Latin "persistere," meaning "to continue steadfastly," built from "per" (through, thoroughly) and "sistere" (to stand, to take a stand). The sense is literally of planting yourself firmly and not moving, which is why the word carries the idea of standing one's ground across time. The present participle "persistentem" gave English its form, and the English adjective keeps that sense of stubborn continuance. The root "sistere" also sits behind a family of English words such as "insist," "resist," and "assist," all of which share the image of standing firm or standing in a particular place. "Persistent" is essentially "persist" with the adjectival ending "-ent," which marks it as describing a quality rather than an action.

Synonyms: tenacious, determined, unrelenting, steadfast, resolute

Antonyms: fickle, indifferent, yielding, temporary, inconstant