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Showing results for tenacious. Search instead for tenaculums.
Definitions

tenacious

[tuh-ney-shuhs] / təˈneɪ ʃəs /
ADJECTIVE
strong, unyielding
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cohesive determined dogged forceful persistent relentless resolute spunky staunch steadfast stout strong-willed stubborn tough unswerving
STRONG
retentive
WEAK
adamant bound clinging coherent fast firm inflexible intransigent iron meaning business mulish obdurate obstinate persevering persisting pertinacious possessive purposeful set solid stalwart sturdy sure tight true unforgetful unshakable
Antonyms
STRONGEST
afraid irresolute kind unreliable weak yielding
WEAK
loose slack surrendering unattached
ADJECTIVE
sticky
Synonyms
STRONG
retentive
WEAK
adhesive clinging clingy fast firm fixed glutinous gummy inseparable mucilaginous resisting secure set tacky tight viscid viscose viscous waxy
Antonyms
WEAK
loose slack surrendering unattached weak yielding

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.

Savinho and Josko Gvardiol were especially culpable, with costly second-half misses after City finally found some momentum in the face of Sunderland's tenacious performance.

From Barron's • Jan. 1, 2026

“We’ve got to be nimble, tenacious, and smart,” Dorothy asserts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

“Katie’s a very tenacious, self-assured individual,” recalled Jordan Ball, who was a senator for the opposition party.

From Slate • Dec. 18, 2025

“Avery is a talented, tenacious kid with a huge heart. I’m 100% certain that Altadena Girls is only the first of many incredible things that Avery will bring to the world.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

While earnestly wishing to erase from his mind the trace of my former offence, I had stamped on that tenacious surface another and far deeper impression: I had burnt it in.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë