Relentless is spelled as /rɪˈlɛntlɪs/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word is an adjective used to describe something that is continuous, unceasing or persistent. It is composed of two root words - 're-' meaning 'again or repeated' and 'lent' meaning 'slack or yield.' Therefore, Relentless means not yielding or slackening; determined and persistent to achieve a specific objective. As with any word, it's important to understand its spelling and pronunciation to use it correctly in written or spoken language.
Relentless is an adjective that describes someone or something that is persistent, determined, and unwavering in its pursuit of a goal or objective. The word implies an absence of mercy, leniency, or giving up. It suggests that the subject continues to pursue its course of action or intention relentlessly without any pause, rest, or respite, pushing forward with tireless determination.
A relentless person does not easily yield to obstacles or setbacks but maintains an unshakable focus on their desired outcome. They display an unrelenting resolve and tenacity, refusing to be discouraged or dissuaded by challenges, difficulties, or opposition along the way. Regardless of the odds against them or the critiques they may face, a relentless individual persists in their efforts, striving to overcome any and all obstacles that stand in their path.
In a broader sense, relentless can also describe harsh or fierce conditions, circumstances, or events that persist or continue without abatement. It captures the sense of something persistent, unyielding, or unceasing in its intensity or occurrence. For example, a relentless storm refers to an unrelenting downpour of rain or unending gusts of wind that do not lessen or diminish.
In summary, relentless is an adjective that describes an unwavering and determined pursuit of a goal or objective without relenting or giving up. It can also characterize harsh or severe conditions that persist without abatement.
Destitute of pity or compassion; unmerciful; unforgiving; cruel.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "relentless" originated from the combination of two Old English words: "re-" meaning "back" or "again" and "lent" derived from the Old English word "lǣnan" which means "to lend". Over time, "re-" took on the sense of "intensive", while "lent" evolved to "lentan", meaning "to give, yield" or "to go, proceed". Thus, "relentless" originally meant "yielding back" or "giving back", but its meaning shifted to indicate someone who does not yield or give in to relenting, in the sense of being persistent, unyielding, or unwavering.