What does persevered mean?
Persevere means to continue pursuing a goal or undertaking difficult work without surrendering in the face of setbacks. It emphasizes persistence, patience, and determination rather than simply continuing an activity. The word is often used in contexts involving adversity, repeated failure, long effort, or demanding circumstances: someone perseveres in a difficult task, perseveres despite criticism, or perseveres toward a difficult goal. Its connotations are broadly positive, presenting endurance as a commendable quality, although the effort itself need not succeed. Persevere can be used in both formal and informal English, but it sounds more deliberate and reflective than expressions such as “carry on” or “keep going.” It is especially useful for describing sustained effort over time and the decision not to abandon a difficult undertaking.
verbTo continue trying to achieve something despite difficulties, obstacles, or setbacks. The word implies steady, determined effort rather than giving up.
- To continue trying to do something despite difficulties or opposition.
"Despite several setbacks, she persevered until she completed the project."
"The team persevered through a difficult season and reached the final."
"He persevered in his efforts to learn the language, despite occasional frustration."
Persevere comes from the Latin perseverare, meaning “to be obstinate” or “to persist with purpose.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does persevered come from?
The word comes from Latin perseverare, formed from perseverus, meaning “stubborn” or “steadfast.” It was used in Latin with the sense of continuing firmly or persistently. English borrowed the word in the early 16th century, and its modern meaning developed from the older sense of maintaining an effort despite difficulty. The related noun perseverance preserves the same idea of steady determination.
Related word forms
How persevered is actually used
Persevere is generally formal or neutral in register. It carries a positive sense of determination, patience, and resilience, especially when effort continues in the face of hardship.
Easily confused with persevered
Persevere means to continue making efforts despite difficulties, whereas preserve means to keep something intact or protect it from damage or loss.