Definitions

chronic

[kron-ik] / ˈkrɒn ɪk /

ADJECTIVE

incessant, never-ending

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constant continual continuing continuous deep-rooted deep-seated habitual incurable lifelong lingering persistent protracted recurrent recurring sustained

WEAK

abiding ceaseless confirmed enduring ever-present fixed inborn inbred ineradicable ingrained inveterate lasting long-lived long-standing obstinate perennial persisting prolonged rooted routine settled stubborn tenacious unabating unmitigated unyielding usual

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ceasing ending halting inconstant infrequent intermittent interrupted occasional stopping temporary

WEAK

curable eradicable

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.

A decade or so later, Franklin learned she had chronic kidney disease.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

During an investor call on Saturday, a Pfizer executive noted that patients and doctors now view these drugs as tools that address a chronic disease, not as a one-and-done medication.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 6, 2026

Last month, I visited a Hollywood neighborhood where one frustrated resident hired her housekeeper to document chronic problems related to homelessness, illegal dumping and criminal activity.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

The charity said rental housing was a "particularly difficult" area for its clients, along with a "chronic shortage of social housing".

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

If you want to know about editorial “commaphilia” as a source of chronic antagonism, read The Years with Ross.

From "Eats, Shoots & Leaves" by Author

Vocabulary lists containing chronic

List 2

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It's About Time: Chron and Temp

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100 SAT words Beginning with "C"

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