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

The Kremlin has insisted that its primary goal is a full military takeover of Donetsk -- whether achieved on the battlefield or at the negotiating table -- and has dismissed any notion of returning the nuclear plant to Ukrainian control. —Arkansas Online, 25 Dec. 2025

Others insist on aspirin or Sprite. —Mark Glende, Twin Cities, 24 Dec. 2025

Finished Plywood Backings Chambless, who specializes in authentic 18th and 19th-century antiques, insists that the back of a piece can tell you just as much about age and quality as many other characteristics. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2025

State leaders can continue to insist this is success. —Jason Isaac, Oc Register, 23 Dec. 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