̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˈrāshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin perseveration-, perseveratio perseverance, from perseveratus + -ion-, -io -ion
: continuation of something (as an activity or pursuit) usually to an exceptional degree or beyond a desired point: as
a. : continual repetition of a mental act usually evidenced by speech or by some other form of overt behavior especially as a mechanism of defense
b. : spontaneous and persistent recurrence of something (as an idea, mental image, tune, or word)