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Definition of tenaciousness

tenaciousness

/təˈneɪ.ʃəs.nəs/
te · na · cious · ness
Adverb:tenaciously
•
Adjective:tenacious
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tenaciousness Lexical Profile

tenaciousness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being persistent, determined, and unwilling to give up easily.

Example

"Her remarkable tenaciousness in the face of repeated setbacks eventually led the research team to a major breakthrough."

2

The physical property of holding fast, clinging tightly, or resisting separation (such as the adhesiveness of glue or the grip of roots).

Example

"The tenaciousness of the ivy's roots made it nearly impossible to pull the vines off the old brick wall without damaging the mortar."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for tenaciousness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for tenaciousness

Word Nuance & Usage

While "tenaciousness" is a valid and grammatically correct noun, native speakers strongly prefer its shorter Latinate equivalent, "tenacity," in almost all formal and everyday contexts.

• Rhymes for tenaciousness

• Nearby Words

tenably
tenacious
tenaciously
tenaciousness
tenacity
tenancy
tenant

Cite this Entry

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