Synonym Chooser

How is the word inveterate distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words chronic and confirmed are common synonyms of inveterate. While all three words mean "firmly established," inveterate applies to a habit, attitude, or feeling of such long existence as to be practically ineradicable or unalterable.

an inveterate smoker

Where would chronic be a reasonable alternative to inveterate?

The words chronic and inveterate can be used in similar contexts, but chronic suggests something that is persistent or endlessly recurrent and troublesome.

a chronic complainer

In what contexts can confirmed take the place of inveterate?

The meanings of confirmed and inveterate largely overlap; however, confirmed implies a growing stronger and firmer with time so as to resist change or reform.

a confirmed bachelor

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of inveterate In this latest film co-directed by Nick Park, Wallace, the inveterate tinkerer whose contraptions always veered toward Rube Goldberg–style charm and utility (or lack thereof), has outsourced his quaint life to Big Tech, much to the chagrin of his old-school pup. Vikram Murthi, Vulture, 3 Jan. 2025 An inveterate bus rider of the old No. 6, Eldridge believed in public transportation. Frederick N. Rasmussen, Baltimore Sun, 28 Nov. 2024 Even diplomats of Iran and North Korea, two of America’s most inveterate foes, can reside in New York city as a result of this unique host status of our country. Saleem H. Ali, Forbes, 3 Nov. 2024 Second Gentleman Dough Emhoff has established a reputation as a music nerd and, like his wife, Vice President Kamala Harris, an inveterate crate digger. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 22 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for inveterate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inveterate
Adjective
  • Simone is damaged and buoyant simultaneously, and the young actress shows a deep maturity in the portrayal of the character's complex mental and emotional state.
    Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 23 May 2025
  • But according to recent discoveries made at volcanoes in Hawai’i, trace amounts of some of those coveted metals are seeping up from the planet’s deepest reaches.
    Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 22 May 2025
Adjective
  • Experiences of patients with chronic illness, disability or language barriers can often go unheard.
    Jim Longo, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
  • But living with chronic illness means making accommodations and adjusting every decision to reduce the risk of a flare-up.
    Melanie Curry, People.com, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Paddy Boyland, a lifelong Blue, is saying farewell.
    Phil Hay, New York Times, 15 May 2025
  • Recognizing the signs of stroke and acting fast can mean the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability.
    Mill Etienne, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • This is what happens when there is no Shot in the Dark to play and everyone is in hardcore jury management mode.
    Dalton Ross, EW.com, 22 May 2025
  • The video-audio AI tool is available Tuesday to U.S. subscribers of Google's new $249.99 per month Ultra subscription plan, which is geared toward hardcore AI enthusiasts.
    Jennifer Elias,Samantha Subin, CNBC, 20 May 2025
Adjective
  • Season 2 is shaping up to be even more star-studded, with confirmed appearances Giancarlo Esposito, Katie Holmes, Cynthia Erivo, Margo Martindale, John Mulaney, Ego Nwodim.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025
  • People without confirmed identities won't be allowed to go through security.
    Alex Sundby May 6, CBS News, 6 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Inveterate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inveterate. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on inveterate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!