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Synonyms

recurring

American  
[ri-kur-ing, -kuhr-] / rɪˈkɜr ɪŋ, -ˈkʌr- /

adjective

  1. occurring or appearing again.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of recurring

recur + -ing 1

Explanation

Something recurring happens over and over. When you have a recurring cough, it could be something serious, like bronchitis. This is a word for things that keep popping up or returning, like flowers are a recurring subject of the artist Georgia O’Keefe’s paintings. Recurring lateness is a habit your teacher or boss won’t tolerate. Lots of people have recurring health problems, such as back pain or sore knees. A guest character on a TV show who shows up once in awhile is a recurring character: they just keep coming back.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing recurring

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Recurring materials in his works held layered meanings.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Recurring road incidents had already shown a deeply troubled side to this supreme champion.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

Recurring revenue in defense is contractual and performance-based, not automatic.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 28, 2026

Recurring operating profit in 2025 slid to 1.63 billion euros from 2.44 billion euros it made in the prior year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 10, 2026

Recurring to this point, let me express the opinion that the most pretentious, or erudite language, is not always that best adapted to the purposes of practical life.

From The American Gentleman's Guide to Politeness and Fashion or, Familiar Letters to his Nephews by Lunettes, Henry