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.

The heat wave is deep, persistent and widespread, spanning from roughly San Francisco to the Mexican border.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

Sand dredging in Lough Neagh "may be having broader and more persistent impacts" on the lake than previously thought, according to new research led by Queen's University Belfast.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

The boom in shipments offers a key lifeline for Beijing, while persistent woes in the vast domestic real estate market weigh on investment and consumer moods.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

This time, however, the “shift is macro-driven rather than caused by lockdowns, which suggests a more persistent drag and genuine demand destruction.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

Two things are for sure, Jazz ain't no dummy, and she is unbelievably persistent.

From "When I Was the Greatest" by Jason Reynolds

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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