persist
verb (used without object)
to continue steadfastly or firmly in some state, purpose, course of action, or the like, especially in spite of opposition, remonstrance, etc..
have persisted
-
present perfectof persist.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Rumors have persisted that a compromise candidate could be parachuted into the process at the behest of the powerful five veto-wielding Security Council members -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States.
From Barron's ● Sep. 29, 2026
Other firms have changed their tune on pricing as the war and trade uncertainty have persisted, and as volatile commodity prices have swung back and forth.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 15, 2026
Despite inspections finding some improvements, concerns about the prison have persisted among inmates, their families and the authorities.
From BBC ● Aug. 9, 2026
According to his analysis, this group may have persisted for around 35 million years.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 19, 2026
"Because—because I fancy he was the kind of man who, if he had known the real reason, would have persisted in staying single on her account."
From A Knight on Wheels by Ian Hay
