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 Cecilia Rodriguez is a professional journalist and inveterate traveler covering Culture and Travel trends in Europe. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for inveterate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inveterate
Adjective
  • Tequila has long been celebrated for its deep Mexican heritage and craftsmanship, but Black entrepreneurs, mixologists, and investors are now making their mark on the industry.
    Essence, Essence, 10 July 2025
  • The company began airing games from Major League Baseball in 2022 and has a deeper deal with Major League Soccer as well.
    Chris Morris, Fortune, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • Money, and his chronic lack of it, would worry him for the rest of his life.
    Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 11 July 2025
  • Follow-up studies of people aged between 52 and 89 showed that those aging rapidly were 60% more likely to develop dementia, 18% more likely to be diagnosed with chronic illnesses, and 40% more likely to die within the same period compared to those who were aging at a slower pace.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • But science writer Stephen S. Hall, whose latest book is called Slither, is a lifelong snake admirer.
    Brianne Kane, Scientific American, 1 July 2025
  • Hannah Wilson’s cat Sunny was her lifelong companion through major life transitions, including her move to N.Y.C.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • The department’s strategy typically involves going after the small group of hardcore offenders driving most of the violence, an approach Hamilton said is paying off.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2025
  • The hardcore Escape From Tarkov wipe has been teased for a few weeks, but now it has officially been confirmed, with the wipe date revealed as July 9, which is tomorrow.
    Mike Stubbs, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • The cameo list for Spinal Tap II is expected to be large, with confirmed appearances from Elton John, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, and Trisha Yearwood.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 1 July 2025
  • Passengers with confirmed identities may then be subjected to additional screening.
    Alex Sundby May 6, CBS News, 6 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Inveterate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inveterate. Accessed 16 Jul. 2025.

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