insistence

noun

in·​sis·​tence in-ˈsi-stən(t)s How to pronounce insistence (audio)
Synonyms of insistencenext
1
: the act or an instance of insisting
2
: the quality or state of being insistent : urgency

Synonyms of insistence

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Examples of insistence in a Sentence

He spoke with great insistence of the need for reform. the insistence of the crashing waves
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As this report explained, this is largely thanks to its uncompromising quality standards and its insistence that each of its attractions outdoes its predecessors. — Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 Dunphy said a definite ask by the city will be an insistence on a labor-harmony agreement that ensures union jobs. — Jason Quick, New York Times, 31 July 2026 Previous attempts to reach an agreement have foundered amid mutual suspicion and each side's insistence that the other must move first. — Nidal Al-Mughrabi, USA Today, 31 July 2026 Cretton’s insistence on real locations has an argument behind it. — Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for insistence

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of insistence was in the 15th century

Rhymes for insistence

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Cite this Entry

“Insistence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insistence. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

insistence

noun
in·​sis·​tence in-ˈsis-tən(t)s How to pronounce insistence (audio)
1
: the act or an instance of insisting
2
: the quality or state of being insistent

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