To have staying power
Meaning
To possess the ability to endure, remain popular, or continue to be effective over a long period.
Origin
The late 19th century was a time of intense competition and rapid innovation. As industries boomed and new ideas vied for attention, the ability to simply 'stay' in the game became paramount. The term 'staying power' emerged around 1888, a straightforward yet potent combination of 'stay' – to remain in a place or condition – and 'power' – the capacity to act or endure. It wasn't born from a single dramatic event or obscure ritual, but rather from the collective realization that mere existence, sustained effort, and resilience were vital in a world constantly pushing for the next big thing. Whether in the grueling demands of a marathon, the cutthroat world of business, or the long haul of political campaigns, possessing 'staying power' became the ultimate testament to an individual or entity's true strength and lasting impact.
Examples
- Despite changing musical trends, that classic album has proven to have staying power, still resonating with new generations of listeners.
- The startup's innovative business model will need real staying power to compete against established industry giants.