An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

To withstand the action or effect of; to strive against, or oppose.

Etymology (EN): M.E. resisten, O.Fr. resister, from L. resistere “to resist, to stand back, withstand,” from → re- “against” + sistere “take a stand, stand firm,” cognate with Pers. istâdan, as below.

Etymology (PE): Baristâdan “to withstand, to stand in opposition,” from bar- opposition prefix, → object, + istâdan “to stand,” → solstice.
Istâdegi kardan, composite verb, from istâdegi “resistance,” state noun from istâdan, + kardan “to do, to make,” → -or.