The word Karteria (Greek: καρτερία) comes from the ancient Greek root καρτερέω (kartereó), which means to endure, to be steadfast, or to persevere. Here’s a breakdown of its etymology:
1. Root:
• Derived from κάρτος (kartos), meaning strength or power.
• Related to κρατερός (krateros), meaning strong, mighty, or firm.
2. Suffix:
• The suffix -ία is often used in Greek to form abstract nouns, turning the verb kartereó into karteria, meaning the quality or state of perseverance and endurance.
Historical and Philosophical Usage:
• In ancient Greek literature, karteria was often used to describe the virtue of enduring hardship with resilience, a quality highly valued in Stoic and other philosophical traditions.
• It emphasized not only patience but also the inner strength to persist in the face of adversity.