tenacious
Tenacious (adjective) means refusing to give up or let go, even when things get difficult. Example: “Her tenacious pursuit of the story eventually forced the company to respond.”
How to use tenacious
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHolding on stubbornly and refusing to let go, whether that's an idea, a goal, or a physical grip.
Word forms
more tenacious comparative, most tenacious superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her _____ pursuit of the story eventually forced the company to respond.
Etymology
From Latin tenax ("holding fast, clinging"), from tenere ("to hold").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for tenacious
See all rhymes for tenacious →Frequently asked questions
What does “tenacious” mean?
The word “tenacious” means refusing to give up or let go, even when things get difficult. In plain terms, holding on stubbornly and refusing to let go, whether that's an idea, a goal, or a physical grip.
How do you pronounce “tenacious”?
“Tenacious” is pronounced tuh-NAY-shuhs (/təˈneɪʃəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “tenacious” in a sentence?
Here is “tenacious” used in a sentence: “Her tenacious pursuit of the story eventually forced the company to respond.”
What is another word for “tenacious”?
Words with a similar meaning to “tenacious” include sticky, steadfast and memorious.
What part of speech is “tenacious”?
“Tenacious” is an adjective.
Where does the word “tenacious” come from?
The word “tenacious” comes from Latin. From Latin tenax ("holding fast, clinging"), from tenere ("to hold").
How many meanings does “tenacious” have?
“Tenacious” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: refusing to give up or let go, even when things get difficult.
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