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inveterate

adjective

/ɪnˈvɛt(ə)rət/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of inveterate

Having a particular habit, activity, or interest that is long-established and unlikely to change.
"He was an inveterate smoker and couldn't quit despite multiple attempts."

Detailed meaning of inveterate

Inveterate refers to a person or thing that has a particular habit, behavior, or characteristic that is long-established and unlikely to change. It implies that the habit, behavior, or characteristic has been present for a long time and is deeply ingrained. For example, a person might be described as an inveterate smoker, meaning that they have been smoking for a long time and are unlikely to stop. Or, a company might be described as inveterate in its business practices, meaning that it has been conducting business in a particular way for a long time and is unlikely to change.

In general, the term implies that there is a person or thing that has a particular habit, behavior, or characteristic that is long-established and unlikely to change, whether it's a person or a company, and that it implies that the habit, behavior, or characteristic has been present for a long time and is deeply ingrained.

Example sentences containing inveterate

1. He is an inveterate smoker and has been trying to quit for years.
2. Despite her age, she remains an inveterate traveler, always seeking new adventures.
3. The inveterate gambler couldn't resist placing another bet at the casino.
4. He is known for his inveterate procrastination, always leaving things until the last minute.
5. The inveterate optimist always finds a silver lining in every situation.
6. She's an inveterate collector of antique furniture, with a house filled with unique pieces.

History and etymology of inveterate

The adjective 'inveterate' finds its roots in the Latin word 'inveteratus,' which is the past participle of 'inveterare.' 'Inveterare' is a combination of 'in-' (meaning 'in') and 'vetus' (meaning 'old' or 'ancient'). Therefore, 'inveterate' etymologically means 'to make old' or 'to become deeply established over time.' This word has evolved to describe individuals who have a particular habit, activity, or interest that is long-established and deeply ingrained in their character, suggesting a resistance to change or a persistent and enduring nature. The etymology of 'inveterate' underscores the idea of something being rooted in the past and resistant to alteration, emphasizing its long-standing and unchanging quality.

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Further usage examples of inveterate

1. The inveterate bookworm spends hours each day immersed in novels and non-fiction alike.
2. His inveterate curiosity drives him to constantly explore and learn about the world.
3. The inveterate coffee drinker can't start the day without a strong cup of java.
4. Despite numerous failed diets, she remains an inveterate dessert lover.
5. The inveterate gossip always has the latest news on everyone in town.
6. His inveterate laziness prevents him from achieving his full potential.
7. The inveterate pessimist always expects the worst outcome in any situation.
8. She's an inveterate marathon runner, having completed over 20 races.
9. The inveterate adventurer has climbed the highest peaks and explored the deepest caves.
10. His inveterate honesty sometimes gets him into trouble, as he speaks his mind without filter.
11. The inveterate partygoer is always the last one to leave the dance floor.
12. The inveterate collector of vinyl records has an extensive music library.
13. Despite the warnings, the inveterate daredevil jumped off the cliff without hesitation.
14. The inveterate workaholic finds it difficult to take a break and relax.