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.

Eating too much saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels and may increase the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

His happiness is an affront to their own chronic displeasure.

From Salon • May 19, 2026

Their risk of osteoarthritis was 37% lower, chronic kidney disease was 30% lower, obstructive sleep apnea was 69% lower, and heart failure was 32% lower.

From Science Daily • May 19, 2026

Millions of exhaust-belching motorbikes zip through Hanoi's narrow streets every day fuelling its chronic air pollution, but authorities have backtracked from an ambitious plan to ban them in favour of electric two-wheelers.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

He had lost twenty-six pounds over the previous few months and had a chronic cough accompanied by chest pain.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

Vocabulary lists containing chronic

List 2

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It's About Time: Chron and Temp

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100 SAT words Beginning with "C"

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