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.

Should a strong El Niño arrive, it could tag team with a current deep persistent marine heat wave off the West Coast.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

No one can predict how the current conflict evolves or how persistent the energy shock proves.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

Declining foreign reserves, persistent rupiah weakness and widening spreads against short-term government bonds are reviving expectations of monetary policy tightening.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

A higher-than-expected consumer price index reading indicates persistent inflation, causing the broader market to tumble.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

Another of Farmer’s hopes was to begin to solve one of Zanmi Lasante’s most persistent problems.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

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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