chronic

[kron-ik] / ˈkrɒn ɪk /

ADJECTIVE

incessant, never-ending

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constant continual continuing continuous deep-rooted deep-seated habitual incurable lifelong lingering persistent protracted recurrent recurring sustained

WEAK

abiding ceaseless confirmed enduring ever-present fixed inborn inbred ineradicable ingrained inveterate lasting long-lived long-standing obstinate perennial persisting prolonged rooted routine settled stubborn tenacious unabating unmitigated unyielding usual

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ceasing ending halting inconstant infrequent intermittent interrupted occasional stopping temporary

WEAK

curable eradicable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In recent years, controllers say they have grown increasingly frayed and fatigued due to chronic staffing shortages and frequent equipment outages.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

Gao suffers from chronic lumbar spine disease, arthritis, eye problems and chronic urticaria – a skin condition that causes itchy red welts.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

And what felt worst was that I was working on a book about my other chronic illnesses.

From Slate • Apr. 18, 2026

Several factors appear to drive this decline, including accumulated cellular damage, changes in gene activity, chronic low-level inflammation, and shifts in the bone marrow environment.

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2026

—Some of us children, due to a chronic shortage of buildings, desks, blackboards and benches, would have to be relocated in shacks down by the river.

From "Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography" by Mark Mathabane

Vocabulary lists containing chronic

List 2

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

It's About Time: Chron and Temp

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

100 SAT words Beginning with "C"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!