perseverance
UK[ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns]US[ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪrəns]
n
the quality of continuing to try to achieve a particular aim despite difficulties.
n
steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
Morpheme Breakdown
per
severe
ance
per
through
severe
strict
ance
noun suffix
Etymology
the word perseverance originates from the latin verb 'perseverare', meaning 'to continue steadfastly'. this verb itself is a compound of the intensive prefix 'per-' (through, thoroughly) and the adjective 'severus' (strict, serious), suggesting a sense of strict adherence or seriousness in purpose. entering english via old french 'perseverance' in the 14th century, the term evolved from describing the action of persisting to denote the abstract quality or virtue of persistence itself. the core logic connects the idea of being 'thoroughly strict' with one's course of action to the modern concept of persistent effort in the face of obstacles.
Analysis
Structure: per (through) + severe (strict) + ance (noun suffix)
per (latin, preposition meaning 'through', 'thoroughly'); severe (latin, from 'severus' meaning 'strict', 'serious'); ance (latin, via old french, noun-forming suffix denoting a state or quality).
Examples
her perseverance in the face of adversity was truly inspiring.
success in scientific research often requires years of patience and perseverance.
the team's perseverance finally paid off when they won the championship after a decade of attempts.