persevere
- To continue doing something difficult or challenging despite obstacles, discouragement, or delay.
In a sentence
- Despite failing her driving test twice, she persevered and finally passed on the third attempt.
- The team persevered through months of setbacks before the product was ready to launch.
Usage note. Do not confuse 'persevere' with 'preserve'—they share Latin roots but have different meanings; 'persevere' always implies effort against difficulty.
Where it comes from
English persevere · entered English 14th c.
From Old French 'perseverer,' derived from Latin 'perseverare,' meaning 'to continue steadfastly,' from 'per-' (thoroughly) and 'severus' (strict, serious). The word entered English in the 14th century, primarily through religious texts emphasizing steadfast faith.