The word "tenacity" is spelled with five letters and pronounced /təˈnasəti/. The "t" and "e" are pronounced separately, while the "na" sounds like "nuh". The "ci" is pronounced like "si", and the "ty" is pronounced like "tee". The word is derived from the Latin word "tenax", meaning "holding fast". Its spelling may seem confusing due to the presence of the letter "c" before "i", which is usually pronounced differently in other words. However, it is pronounced as "s" in this case.
Tenacity is a noun that refers to the quality or characteristic of being persistent, determined, and resilient in the face of challenges or obstacles. It encapsulates the ability to hold onto something firmly, both physically and metaphorically, without easily letting go or giving up. It implies a steadfastness of purpose or a dogged determination to achieve a desired outcome.
Someone who possesses tenacity possesses an unwavering resolve and firmness of purpose. They face difficulties, setbacks, or disappointments with resilience and the inner drive to keep going, even when the odds are stacked against them. This quality often manifests in a commitment to a goal or a cause, an unyielding spirit, and an unwillingness to be swayed or discouraged by hardship or opposition.
Tenacity is often associated with showing great courage, resoluteness, and fortitude in the face of adversity. It can be seen as a blend of perseverance and determination, embodying the relentless pursuit of success or accomplishment. Individuals who exhibit tenacity often inspire others with their unwavering determination and ability to bounce back from setbacks.
In summary, tenacity is the quality of persisting and remaining focused on a goal or objective, regardless of the challenges or difficulties encountered along the way. It is the ability to maintain a strong grip on one's purpose, not easily swayed or discouraged, and to stay resolute in the pursuit of success.
Adhesiveness; the character of holding fast.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
That quality of bodies which enables them to stick or adhere to others; that quality in bodies which enables them to resist a severe strain without rupturing or splitting-especially applied to metals, as gold, silver, copper, and iron, which can be drawn into wire.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "tenacity" originated from the Latin word "tenacitas", which is derived from the adjective "tenax", meaning "tending to hold fast or firm". The Latin word "tenax" is further derived from the verb "tenere", which means "to hold". Therefore, "tenacity" essentially means the quality or state of being able to hold fast or cling firmly to something.