insist

verb

in·​sist in-ˈsist How to pronounce insist (audio)
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

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
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.
As part of its demands for a broader ceasefire, the Kremlin laid out several tough conditions that Putin had previously insisted on – such as a halt to all foreign military aid and intelligence to Kyiv, and a halt to any Ukrainian mobilization or rearming during that period. Edward Szekeres, CNN, 21 Mar. 2025 In 1542 a treaty with Spain would have made the principality a fiefdom, but the Grimaldi’s insisted on language that at least gave lip service to their sovereignty. Rob Crossan, JSTOR Daily, 21 Mar. 2025 Barbara wasn't alarmed and insisted Shields sit between their chairs and finish the TV episode with them. Janelle Ash, Fox News, 21 Mar. 2025 Despite the cuts, McMahon insists that the department will continue handling grants, formula funding, and loans for disadvantaged students. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for insist

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of insist was in 1586

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Insist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insist. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

insist

verb
in·​sist in-ˈsist How to pronounce insist (audio)
1
: to place special stress or great importance
insists on punctuality
2
: to make a demand : request urgently
insisted that I come

More from Merriam-Webster on insist

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!