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 term is understood to be a reference to someone who makes persistent or vexatious complaints.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2026

“Retail participation has evolved from a cyclical phenomenon into a structural feature of modern markets, providing a persistent source of demand across U.S. equities,” Rubner said.

From MarketWatch • Jul. 1, 2026

All of these efforts aim to make up for a persistent lag behind Google, OpenAI and Anthropic, which dominate the race for cutting-edge AI models.

From Barron's • Jul. 1, 2026

But the world’s willingness to hold dollars is precisely what allows the U.S. to run persistent trade deficits.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 29, 2026

Between classes one day, one boy is especially persistent about it.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove

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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