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.

Inflation has been persistent for the past several months, and there’s little sign it’s letting up anytime soon.

From MarketWatch • May 30, 2026

Major scientific assessments have also treated persistent night shift work and light at night as important public health concerns.

From Science Daily • May 30, 2026

Another difference: The current demand environment is powered by a persistent growth engine, ongoing data-center construction.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

But he concluded: "Two wrongs do not make a right, they never do. This was a determined, persistent, highly dangerous pursuit."

From BBC • May 29, 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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