Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PER-SIST'ENT, or PER-SIST'ING, a.

In botany, continuing without withering; opposed to marcescent; as, a persisting stigma: continuing after the corol is withered, as a persistent calyx; continuing after the leaves drop off, as a persistent stipule; remaining on the plant till the fruit is ripe, or till after the summer is over, as a persistent leaf. – Lee. Martyn.