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Outlast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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outlast

[ˌaʊtˈlæst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

survive longer

To outlast means to endure or continue to exist longer than someone or something else. This term is often used in contexts involving competition, endurance, or survival.

Synonyms

last longer, outlive, survive.

Examples of usage

  • She managed to outlast her competitors in the race.
  • The old tree outlasted many buildings in the city.
  • He wanted to outlast his illness and live a full life.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In sports, athletes train to outlast their opponents, meaning they aim to perform better over longer periods.
  • In endurance sports like marathons or triathlons, competitors often follow strategies to outlast their fellow racers.
  • The concept of outlasting is vital in team sports, where stamina can determine the game's outcome.

Psychology

  • Mental resilience plays a key role in a person's ability to outlast difficult situations emotionally.
  • Cognitive behavioral strategies can help individuals outlast periods of stress by changing their thought patterns.
  • Studies have shown that those who set long-term goals are more likely to outlast challenges and maintain motivation.

Nature

  • Certain animal species have adapted to outlast extreme weather conditions, like the Arctic freeze, by developing thicker fur or fat stores.
  • Plants, like cacti, can outlast droughts by conserving water in their tissues, allowing them to thrive in harsh deserts.
  • In ecological terms, survival of the fittest often refers to species that can outlast others over generations.

Technology

  • Some products are designed to outlast their predecessors, offering improved durability and longer usage times.
  • Technological advancements have led to the creation of batteries that outlast previous versions, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
  • In software, programs that outlast competitors tend to evolve and adapt to user needs better over time.

Origin of 'outlast'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'out' indicating beyond or more than, and 'last', meaning to continue or remain.
  • It has roots in Middle English, where 'lasten' meant to endure or persist.
  • The term has been used since the early 15th century in English literature.

The word 'outlast' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'out-' which suggests superiority or being beyond, and 'last,' which comes from the Old English 'lastian,' meaning to endure or remain in existence. The term has been used since the late 16th century, reflecting a concept that is prevalent in various contexts, such as sports, competition, and personal resilience. Its etymology highlights a focus on duration and survival, which is fitting given its use in contemporary language to discuss various forms of endurance, whether in physical, emotional, or situational terms. The evolution of the word has paralleled societal changes, often emphasizing the significance of persistence and longevity in both personal and collective experiences.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,218, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.