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Showing results for tenacious. Search instead for tenacul.
Definitions

tenacious

[tuh-ney-shuhs] / təˈneɪ ʃəs /
ADJECTIVE
strong, unyielding
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cohesive determined dogged forceful persistent relentless resolute spunky staunch steadfast stout strong-willed stubborn tough unswerving
STRONG
retentive
WEAK
adamant bound clinging coherent fast firm inflexible intransigent iron meaning business mulish obdurate obstinate persevering persisting pertinacious possessive purposeful set solid stalwart sturdy sure tight true unforgetful unshakable
Antonyms
STRONGEST
afraid irresolute kind unreliable weak yielding
WEAK
loose slack surrendering unattached
ADJECTIVE
sticky
Synonyms
STRONG
retentive
WEAK
adhesive clinging clingy fast firm fixed glutinous gummy inseparable mucilaginous resisting secure set tacky tight viscid viscose viscous waxy
Antonyms
WEAK
loose slack surrendering unattached weak yielding

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.

Reportedly on the verge of signing Bournemouth's Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo, Guardiola could do with reinforcements in attack after his team were frustrated by Sunderland's tenacious performance.

From Barron's • Jan. 1, 2026

“We’ve got to be nimble, tenacious, and smart,” Dorothy asserts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

“Katie’s a very tenacious, self-assured individual,” recalled Jordan Ball, who was a senator for the opposition party.

From Slate • Dec. 18, 2025

It was early in Jay Stein’s tenacious pursuit to turn a throwaway business into a sweet spot for Universal Studios, then owned by Lew Wasserman’s powerhouse entertainment firm MCA.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 23, 2025

Thanks to Theo’s influence, to the artists he’s met, and to his own tenacious work, Vincent’s paintings are better than ever: they are imbued with color and light and Vincent’s own particular style.

From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman