Outlasts is a verb in English, which means to continue to exist longer than something else. The pronunciation of the word can be transcribed in IPA as /aʊtˈlæsts/. The word begins with the stressed vowel sound /aʊ/, represented by the digraph ‘ou.’ The ‘l’ and ‘t’ in ‘outlasts’ are pronounced separately, and the ‘s’ at the end of the word is pronounced as the voiceless consonant sound /s/. Overall, the spelling of ‘outlasts’ reflects the sounds of the word when spoken aloud.
The term "outlasts" refers to a verb that describes the act of enduring or surviving for a longer period of time than someone or something else. It implies a sense of longevity or resilience in comparison to other entities. To "outlast" means to persist or prevail beyond the likely or expected time frame of existence.
In various contexts, this term can apply to living organisms, objects, or even concepts and ideas. For example, in the realm of nature, certain species may be said to "outlast" others when they manage to survive and thrive in harsh environments or adverse conditions. Similarly, inanimate objects like durable materials or products can be said to "outlast" their counterparts if they demonstrate superior longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
Furthermore, "outlasts" can also apply to cultural or societal phenomena, indicating their ability to endure over time. For instance, a long-standing tradition or a prevailing ideology can be described as having "outlasted" other competing practices or belief systems.
Overall, the term "outlasts" encapsulates the idea of surpassing or outliving others in terms of durability, persistence, or longevity. It signifies the ability to withstand challenges, the effects of time, or the changing circumstances that may affect the longevity of other entities.
The word "outlasts" is a combination of two parts: "out-" and "lasts".
1. "Out-" is a prefix derived from Old English "ūt", which means "outside" or "beyond". It often suggests "exceeding" or "surpassing" in various contexts.
2. "Lasts" is the third-person singular form of the verb "last", which comes from Old English "læstan" meaning "to continue" or "endure". The word ultimately traces back to Old Norse and Germanic roots, related to the sense of remaining or continuing.
So, when combined, "outlasts" essentially means "to endure or continue beyond a specified length or time", suggesting a longevity that exceeds or surpasses something else.