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Showing results for persist. Search instead for persim.
Definitions

persist

[per-sist, -zist] / pərˈsɪst, -ˈzɪst /
VERB
carry on, carry through
Synonyms
STRONGEST
carry on carry over continue endure go on linger persevere prevail pursue recur remain
STRONG
abide grind insist last obtain perseverate repeat strive
WEAK
be resolute be stubborn follow through follow up go all the way go the limit hold on keep up leave no stone unturned perdure see through stick it out stick to guns tough it out
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cease discontinue give up go halt leave stop
STRONG
forget
WEAK
quit

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

These impact-driven systems can persist for thousands to tens of thousands of years, providing enough time for simple molecules to combine into more complex structures that could eventually lead to life.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

Waste management and public concerns regarding the safety of nuclear energy persist.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned his country could face "veritable extinction" if low birth rates persist.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Talks about the potential end of the conflict led stocks to rise Tuesday, but it remains unclear whether higher food prices could persist for months or longer.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

And why did everyone persist in thinking the mute was exactly as they wanted him to be—when most likely it was all a very queer mistake?

From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.