tenacious

Tenacious is an adjective used to describe someone or something that holds firmly or demonstrates persistent determination. In human behavior, a tenacious person adheres to goals with unwavering effort, often characterized by perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to overcome obstacles. In a physical sense, tenacious can describe a strong grip, an adhesive that resists separation, or any property that makes an object difficult to remove or separate.

Etymology: Tenacious comes from the Latin tenax, meaning "holding fast," from tenere, "to hold." The word has been in English since the 16th century and is closely related to tenacity, the noun form.

Usage: In everyday language, tenacious conveys admiration for determination, as in a tenacious student who studies through setbacks, or a tenacious investigator who pursues leads until a resolution is reached. It can also be used in science and industry to describe materials or processes that resist detachment, such as a tenacious film or a tenacious bond.

Connotation: The term often carries a positive nuance of grit and steadfastness, though it can imply stubbornness in some contexts. The exact shade depends on tone and accompanying descriptors.

Related terms: tenacity, tenaciousness (less common), persistent, steadfast, dogged.