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.

Johnson & Johnson Chairman and Chief Executive Joaquin Duato said finding a cure for certain cancers and turning others into chronic diseases is a realistic goal for the coming decade.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

Appetite may decrease, oral health can worsen, chronic illnesses become more common and many older people take medicines that affect how nutrients are absorbed, used or cleared from the body.

From Science Daily • 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

Others worry about the invasiveness of a colonoscopy and undergoing anesthesia or are too sick with a chronic disease to be sedated.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

They focus on the North’s chronic food shortages, human rights violations, military provocations, nuclear program, and dependence on China.

From "Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West" by Blaine Harden

Vocabulary lists containing chronic

List 2

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

It's About Time: Chron and Temp

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

100 SAT words Beginning with "C"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!