To stand firm; to be fixed and unmoved; to stay; to continue steadfastly; especially, to continue fixed in a course of conduct against opposing motives; to persevere; - - sometimes conveying an unfavorable notion, as of doggedness or obstinacy
stay behind; "The smell stayed in the room"; "The hostility remained long after they made up
If you persist in doing something, you continue to do it, even though it is difficult or other people are against it. Why does Britain persist in running down its defence forces? He urged the United States to persist with its efforts to bring about peace `You haven't answered me,' she persisted When I set my mind to something, I persist