stamina

¹

[stam-uh-nuh]

noun

1. strength of physical constitution; power to endure disease, fatigue, privation, etc.

stamina

²

[stam-uh-nuh]

noun

1. a plural of stamen.

stamina

¹

/ ˈstæmɪnə /

noun

1. enduring energy, strength, and resilience

stamina

²

/ ˈstæmɪnə /

noun

1. a plural of stamen

Other Word Forms

• staminal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of stamina¹

1535–45; < Latin, plural of stāmen thread ( stamen ); i.e., the life-threads spun by the Fates

Word History and Origins

Origin of stamina¹

C19: identical with _stamina ² from Latin stāmen thread, hence the threads of life spun out by the Fates, hence energy, etc

Example Sentences

The BBC has learned that Mudryk came into contact with the cardiovascular medication meldonium, which has the potential to increase respiratory capacity and stamina, while on duty with the Ukraine national team.

From BBC

Most members of the Demon Slayer Corps have been trained in special sword-fighting forms known as “breathing styles” that help increase their strength, stamina, speed and more.

From Los Angeles Times

She told the inquiry she is now "better than she was" but struggles with her core strength and stamina, as well as battling the symptoms of deep psychological trauma.

From BBC

After suffering physical issues early in his career, he transformed himself into a complete athlete and rose to the top of the sport thanks to his speed, strength, stamina and flexibility.

From BBC

During that time they have been to the heat of Treviso and plumbed the depths of their stamina to find an extra edge.

From BBC

Related Words

• endurance 
• energy 
• fortitude 
• grit 
• resilience 
• staying power 
• vitality 

When To Use

What does stamina mean?

Stamina is endurance—the strength or energy to keep going, even when tired or facing other unfavorable conditions.The word is most commonly used in the context of sports to refer to the ability to continue performing despite fatigue. Athletes train to improve their stamina.Stamina is also the plural form of the word stamen, which is the part of a flower that produces pollen. Interestingly, both senses of the word are based on the same Latin root.Example: A lot of players are fast and strong, but it’s the ones who have worked to increase their stamina who are most effective at the end of a long game.