from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Persist \Per*sist"\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Persisted}; p. pr. &
vb. n. {Persisting}.] [L. persistere; per + sistere to stand
or be fixed, fr. stare to stand: cf. F. persister. See
{Per-}, and {Stand}.]
To stand firm; to be fixed and unmoved; to stay; to continue
steadfastly; especially, to continue fixed in a course of
conduct against opposing motives; to persevere; -- sometimes
conveying an unfavorable notion, as of doggedness or
obstinacy.
[1913 Webster]
If they persist in pointing their batteries against
particular persons, no laws of war forbid the making
reprisals. --Addison.
[1913 Webster]
Some positive, persisting fops we know,
Who, if once wrong, will needs be always so. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
That face persists.
It floats up; it turns over in my mind. --Mrs.
Browning.
[1913 Webster]
Syn: See {Persevere}, and {Insist}.
[1913 Webster] Persistence