persistent

[per-sis-tuhnt, -zis-] / pərˈsɪs tənt, -ˈzɪs- /

ADJECTIVE

determined; continuous

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constant continual endless enduring incessant insistent perpetual relentless repeated resolute steadfast steady stubborn tenacious unrelenting unremitting

WEAK

assiduous bound bound and determined bulldogged dogged firm fixed immovable in for long haul indefatigable interminable like bad penny never-ending obdurate obstinate perseverant persevering persisting pertinacious sticky tireless unflagging unshakable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

broken ceasing disloyal ending inconstant intermittent interrupted merciful stopping sympathetic temporary terminable unstable unsteady untrustworthy weak yielding

WEAK

lazy relenting surrendering

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.

Evidence of how persistent inflation has frustrated the Fed was on view in the written record of the central bank’s March meeting released Wednesday.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

V even made a feature of the persistent precipitation, lying down on the rain-soaked stage and pretending to do the breast stroke, while performing an impromptu version of the band's comeback single, Swim.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

But the Goldman team added that they see greater upside risks to their targets if there are longer disruptions and persistent crude production losses in the Persian Gulf region.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

"This research represents an important step toward the development of advanced materials capable of tackling one of the world's most persistent environmental contaminants," he concludes.

From Science Daily • Apr. 8, 2026

Jacqui asks with a vague but persistent threat in her condescension.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman

Vocabulary lists containing persistent

100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know

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List 3

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The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

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