insistence

UK: ɪnˈsɪstəns | US: ɪnˈsɪstəns

Definition
  1. n. the act of demanding something firmly and refusing to accept opposition

  2. n. the quality of continuing to do something despite difficulties or criticism

Structure
insist <demand firmly>ence <noun suffix>
Etymology

insistence = insist<demand firmly> + ence<noun suffix>

  • insist: From Latin insistere ("to stand upon, persist"), composed of in- (upon) + sistere (to stand). The root implies unwavering determination.
  • ence: A noun-forming suffix from Latin -entia, indicating a state or quality (e.g., "persistence").

Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin insistere, which combined spatial emphasis (in- = "upon") with action (sistere = "to stand"). Over time, it evolved from literal "standing upon" to metaphorical persistence, reflecting a shift from physical to abstract insistence. The suffix -ence solidified its meaning as a noun denoting persistent demand.

Examples
  1. Her insistence on perfection delayed the project.

  2. Despite his insistence, the request was denied.

  3. The teacher’s insistence on punctuality improved attendance.

  4. Their insistence for transparency won public support.

  5. He repeated his argument with quiet insistence.