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.

I developed persistent acne throughout high school and college, the kind that doesn’t respond to anything and nobody can explain.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

The heat wave is deep, persistent and widespread, spanning from roughly San Francisco to the Mexican border.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

Sand dredging in Lough Neagh "may be having broader and more persistent impacts" on the lake than previously thought, according to new research led by Queen's University Belfast.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

What was once a market leadership group quickly turned into one of the weakest areas, marked by persistent selling pressure, broken charts, and a clear loss of investor confidence.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

The music was never annoying; it was just persistent.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama

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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