persistent

[per-sis-tuhnt, -zis-] / pərˈsɪs tənt, -ˈzɪs- /

ADJECTIVE

determined; continuous

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constant continual endless enduring incessant insistent perpetual relentless repeated resolute steadfast steady stubborn tenacious unrelenting unremitting

WEAK

assiduous bound bound and determined bulldogged dogged firm fixed immovable in for long haul indefatigable interminable like bad penny never-ending obdurate obstinate perseverant persevering persisting pertinacious sticky tireless unflagging unshakable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

broken ceasing disloyal ending inconstant intermittent interrupted merciful stopping sympathetic temporary terminable unstable unsteady untrustworthy weak yielding

WEAK

lazy relenting surrendering

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.

One oddity of any discussion of China’s economy is the persistent presumption that saving is a bad thing in a still-developing economy with enormous scope for productive investment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

There have been persistent questions over the readiness of the capital's main airport, its saturated public transport system and the revamped Azteca stadium.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

"People taking these drugs for obesity often describe a quieting of 'food noise,' the persistent preoccupation with food that drives overeating," Al-Aly said.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2026

Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack is concerned about persistent inflation, which has exceeded the 2% target for over five years.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

I had the same four qualities as any great scientist: I was patient, curious, observant, and persistent.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas

Vocabulary lists containing persistent

100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know

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List 3

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The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

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