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Definition of ensue

ensue

/ɛnˈsuː/
en · sue
Adjective:ensuing
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Past Simple:ensued
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Past Participle:ensued
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Present Participle:ensuing
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ensue Lexical Profile

ensue Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To happen or occur afterward or as a result of something.

Example

"A lively debate ensued after the committee presented its controversial proposal."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ensue
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ensue

Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike 'insure' or 'ensure', which are transitive verbs meaning to protect or guarantee, 'ensue' is strictly intransitive and means to happen afterward or as a result.

• Rhymes for ensue

• Nearby Words

enslaver
ensnare
ensnarement
ensue
ensuing
ensuite
ensure

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in Middle English from Anglo-Norman and Old French 'ensivre', derived from Late Latin 'insequi' (to follow closely or pursue), from 'in-' (upon) and 'sequi' (to follow).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ensue. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ensue
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