relentless

adjective

re·​lent·​less ri-ˈlent-ləs 

: showing or promising no abatement of severity, intensity, strength, or pace : unrelenting

relentless pressure

a relentless campaign

relentlessly adverb

relentlessness noun

Synonyms of relentless

• grim
• determined
• persistent
• unrelenting
• ruthless

Examples of relentless in a Sentence

Her relentless optimism held the team together.

The hunter was relentless in pursuit of his prey.

a relentless opponent of deregulation

Recent Examples on the Web

The timing of the recording reflects a band whose relentless touring had sharpened both its confidence and its new material. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 8 July 2026

The Los Angeles Dodgers, renowned for their relentless pursuit of championships, faced intense trade speculation last year concerning third baseman Max Muncy. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

The Lincoln continues to launch aircraft in support of CENTCOM’s relentless campaign to defend the American people by eliminating threats from the Iranian regime. — Drew Pittock, USA Today, 8 July 2026

Not even the relentless defense chants summoned from the Sparks’ MCs stopped her. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1592, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

relentless

adjective

re·​lent·​less ri-ˈlent-ləs 

: not lessening in severity, intensity, strength, or pace : unrelenting

relentless criticism

relentlessly adverb

relentlessness noun