Tenacious
Not easily pulled apart; holding fast or continuing with determination, whether physically or figuratively.
adjectiveTenacious
Not easily pulled apart; holding fast or continuing with determination, whether physically or figuratively.
adjectiveImagine This
A group of ten strong Asian athletes are performing an act. They are holding tightly together so no one from the audience could pull them apart. If a tentacle of an octopus grabs you, it will certainly be difficult to pull apart.
Sounds Like
tuh-NEY-shuhs
Looks Like
tentacles
Remember This
Tenacious describes persistent, determined behavior or bonds that are hard to break. It can refer to a person who refuses to give up or a situation that resists separation.
Other Forms
Connect With
persistence, perseverance, doggedness, resoluteness, steadfastness
Note
Common mistake: confusing tenacious with tenuous. Tenacious means holding fast or persistent; tenuous means weak or poorly supported. Use collocations like tenacious grip, tenacious effort, or tenacious advocate.