outlast
UK: aʊtˈlɑːst | US: aʊtˈlæst
vt. to endure or last longer than someone or something else
vt. to survive beyond a specified period or event
The word "outlast" combines the prefix "out-" (Old English "ūt," meaning "beyond" or "externally") with the verb "last" (Old English "lǣstan," meaning "to endure" or "persist"). The prefix intensifies the root, creating a sense of surpassing in duration. This construction reflects a straightforward but powerful linguistic logic: to "outlast" is to endure longer than another entity, whether in time, competition, or survival.
The ancient oak tree outlasted every other plant in the forest.
Her patience outlasted his anger, and the argument ended peacefully.
This brand of batteries is designed to outlast cheaper alternatives.
The castle's stone walls outlasted centuries of wars and storms.
His legacy outlasted his lifetime, inspiring generations to come.