Definitions

tenacity

[tuh-nas-i-tee] / təˈnæs ɪ ti /

NOUN

diligence, stubbornness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

chutzpah courage determination firmness grit guts perseverance persistence spunk steadfastness

STRONG

application backbone clock doggedness follow-through gutsiness heart inflexibility intransigence moxie nerve obduracy obstinacy pertinacity resoluteness resolution resolve starch staunchness stomach willfulness

WEAK

guttiness intestinal fortitude stick-to-itiveness strength of purpose true grit what it takes

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cowardice fear idleness indolence timidity weakness

STRONG

indecision question

WEAK

indifference irresolution slackness

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.

What it lacks in explosivity and pacing, “The Complex” at times compensates for in tension, tenderness and tenacity.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

Many attempted to dodge the question, pivoting to terrorism or border security, but her tenacity revealed exactly what most of them actually believe: that there is a “but” lurking around the corner of every statement.

From Salon • Mar. 12, 2026

But Jack hasn’t counted on the tenacity of Robert’s accomplice-sister, Penny, a felon with a genius IQ who shows up seeking answers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

Villa fans will rightly point out that their team has regularly overperformed their xG under Unai Emery, while Sunderland fans will claim that you can't measure tenacity and togetherness.

From BBC • Jan. 15, 2026

One of Olena’s strengths is her tenacity and unwillingness to give up.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad

Vocabulary lists containing tenacity

100 SAT Words Beginning with "T"

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The Bluest Eye

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The Help

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