1. continuance or repetition of a particular behavior, process, or activity despite cessation of the initiating stimulus.

2. the quality or state of maintaining a course of action or keeping at a task and finishing it despite the obstacles (such as opposition or discouragement) or the effort involved. Also called perseverance. See Cloninger’s psychobiological model of personality; Temperament and Character Inventory.

3. continuance of existence, especially for longer than is usual or expected. —persistent adj.