<p><strong>Verb (used without object)</strong></p><ul><li>to persist in anything undertaken; maintain a purpose in spite of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement; continue steadfastly.</li><li>to persist in speech, interrogation, argument, etc.; insist.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to bolster, sustain, or uphold: unflagging faith that had persevered him.</li></ul>