Endurance Meaning and Definition
Endurance
Pronunciation
/ɪnˈdʊərəns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A quality of being able to withstand difficult or unpleasant conditions without losing strength or resolve, often characterized by perseverance, resilience, and determination.
Examples
- Her endurance during the hike was impressive, as she continued to push through even when exhausted.
- The athlete’s endurance training paid off as he finished the marathon strong.
Synonyms
- Perseverance
- Resilience
- Stamina
Antonyms
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Short-lived
Additional Information
Endurance is often developed through practice, training, and experience. It requires individuals to push beyond their comfort zones, tolerate discomfort, and maintain focus under pressure. Endurance can be applied in various contexts, such as sports, military operations, and personal challenges.
In addition to its physical aspects, endurance also involves mental and emotional resilience, enabling individuals to cope with adversity, uncertainty, and stress.
Etymology
The word “Endurance” comes from the Latin “endurare,” meaning “to suffer” or “to bear.” It has evolved to convey a sense of persistence, stamina, and strength in the face of challenges.
Usage Notes
Endurance is often used to describe a person’s ability to cope with difficult situations, such as physical or mental challenges, illnesses, or trying circumstances.
In a figurative sense, endurance can also refer to someone’s ability to continue working, studying, or pursuing a goal despite obstacles or setbacks.
Cultural References
Endurance has been featured in various cultural contexts, including literature, film, and sports. For example, the book “Endurance” by Alfred Lansing chronicles Robert Falcon Scott’s ill-fated Terra Nova Expedition, highlighting the team’s physical and mental endurance in the harsh Antarctic environment.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Tough it out” – to persevere and endure through a difficult situation
- “Rise to the challenge” – to respond to a difficult situation with endurance and determination
Related Words or Phrases
- Perseverance
- Resilience
- Stamina
- Tenacity
Collocations
- Endurance test
- Endurance training
- Endurance athlete
Frequency of Use
Endurance is a common term used in various contexts, including sports, medicine, and everyday life. According to the Corpus of Contemporary American English, endurance is one of the most frequently used words in the English language.
Common Misspellings
- Endurunce
- Endurancee