Literally, to stand or rest on.

In geometry, an angle is said to insist upon the arc of the circle intercepted between the two lines which contain the angle.

To dwell on in discourse; as, to insist on a particular topic. To insist on, to press or urge for any thing with immovable firmness; to persist in demands; as, to insist on oppressive terms in a treaty; to insist on immediate payment of a debt.