endurance

UK: ɪnˈdjʊərəns | US: ɪnˈdʊrəns

Definition
  1. n. the ability to withstand hardship or adversity

  2. n. the capacity to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort

  3. n. persistence over time

Structure
endure <to last, bear>ance <noun suffix indicating state or quality>
Etymology

The word "endurance" derives from the Old French "endurer" (to harden, bear, tolerate), which itself comes from Latin "indurare" (to harden, make firm). The Latin roots are "in-" (intensive) + "durus" (hard). Over time, "endure" evolved in English to mean "to last" or "to bear patiently," and the suffix "-ance" was added to form a noun describing the quality of lasting or persevering. The logic reflects a metaphorical hardening—like metal tempered to withstand stress.

Examples
  1. Marathon runners train for years to build their endurance.

  2. Her endurance during the crisis inspired everyone around her.

  3. The material’s endurance under extreme conditions makes it ideal for aerospace use.

  4. Emotional endurance is just as important as physical strength.

  5. The team’s endurance led them to victory after a grueling 12-hour competition.