diligence1
/ˈdɪlɪdʒ(ə)ns
/noun [mass noun]
Careful and persistent work or effort: few party members challenge his diligence as an MP...
- It's all just going to take diligence and persistence and we've got plenty of that.
- Consequently, effort and diligence were not always explicitly known.
- If he or she was guilty of no want of diligence and used every effort to secure the appearance of the accused man, it might be proper to remit it entirely.
Synonyms
conscientiousness, assiduousness, assiduity, industriousness, rigour, rigorousness, punctiliousness, meticulousness, carefulness, thoroughness, sedulousness, attentiveness, heedfulness, earnestness, intentness, studiousness;
constancy, perseverance, persistence, tenacity, pertinacity, zeal, zealousness, dedication, commitment;
tirelessness, indefatigability, doggedness;
industry, hard work, application, effort, concentration, care, attention
archaic laboriousness, continuance
rare perseveration
Origin
Middle English (in the sense 'close attention, caution'): via Old French from Latin diligentia, from diligent- 'assiduous' (see diligent).
diligence2
/ˈdɪlɪdʒ(ə)ns/noun historical
A public stagecoach.
Origin
Late 17th century: from French, shortened from carrosse de diligence 'coach of speed'.