insist

verb

in·​sist in-ˈsist 

insisted; insisting; insists

intransitive verb

1

: to be emphatic, firm, or resolute about something intended, demanded, or required

They insist on going.

2

archaic : persist

transitive verb

: to maintain in a persistent or positive manner

insisted that the story was true

Synonyms of insist

• allege
• claim
• assert
• contend
• maintain
• declare

Examples of insist in a Sentence

I didn't want to go, but she insisted.

“Come on, let's go.” “Oh, all right, if you insist.”

She insists the money is hers.

Recent Examples on the Web

When searching for a new office for his architecture firm, Blake Mourer insisted on finding something that was not move-in ready. —Matthew Geiger, Denver Post, 27 Nov. 2025

The former anchor insisted all of his encounters were consensual. —Brenton Blanchet, PEOPLE, 27 Nov. 2025

As unions plan to intensify protests, insisting their rights are at stake, analysts warn that the larger economic agenda to keep economic growth on track, including the $36 billion textile and apparel export industry could face mounting pressure if the standoff deepens. —Mayu Saini, Sourcing Journal, 27 Nov. 2025

Gazan authorities say Israeli forces have violated the seven-week truce nearly 500 times, though Washington, which brokered both deals, insists the Gaza pact remains solid. —semafor.com, 27 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle French or Latin; Middle French insister, from Latin insistere to stand upon, persist, from in- + sistere to take a stand; akin to Latin stare to stand — more at stand

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Phrases Containing insist

• insist on/upon

Rhymes for insist

• assist
• blacklist
• booklist
• checklist
• consist
• desist
• dismissed
• enlist
• exist
• oocyst
• persist
• resist

Kids Definition

insist

verb

in·​sist in-ˈsist 

1

: to place special stress or great importance

insists on punctuality

2

: to make a demand : request urgently

insisted that I come