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.

Power shortages, damaged roads and persistent security risks are ongoing challenges.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

The persistent problem, he said, had left him and his family, as well as his neighbours, "always on edge".

From BBC • May 28, 2026

“We do not view this divestment as a sign of Aspex losing conviction in a potential takeover. Rather, Uber’s persistent buying suggests the opposite,” Genelot adds.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

The persistent concern for cybersecurity companies is how artificial intelligence will affect the sector and whether it will make existing products obsolete.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

It was this big talk, not the persistent southwesterly breeze, that had prompted New York editor Charles Anderson Dana to nickname Chicago “the Windy City.”

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson

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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