Definitions

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.

China’s export growth accelerated in May, offering a vital lifeline to an economy otherwise bogged down by a persistent domestic slowdown.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

These moves can position your portfolio for persistent, elevated inflation:

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

An experiment involving preschool children is unfolding in South Los Angeles, one that aims to solve a persistent problem in the region’s stressed day-care industry: the lack of workers.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

Many residents had already been dealing with persistent noise from nearby cryptocurrency mining operations, another industrial project the county had approved.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

The information wasn’t easy to find, but the children were persistent, and after weeks of work, they finally found what they were searching for.

From "The Wild Robot Escapes" by Peter Brown

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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