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.

Today, excess abdominal fat is a major risk factor because it can trigger chronic inflammation that damages arteries, cardiac tissue and kidneys, he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

The pooled analysis included 14,574 participants with both diabetic and non-diabetic chronic kidney disease.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 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

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

The number of bears in the park is not large—estimates range from 400 to 600—but they are a chronic problem because so many of them have lost their fear of humans.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

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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