desist
verb (used without object)
to cease, as from some action or proceeding; stop.
desisting
-
present participleof desist.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
A 2022 study of 317 trans youths discovered that after an average of five years of socially transitioning only 2.5 percent of participants ended up desisting and identifying as cisgender.
From Slate ● May 2, 2023
He went softly down the hall for his tub and dressed with more than his usual care; all the while wanting to whistle, but desisting through deference to the sleeping household.
From Sunlight Patch by Harris, Credo Fitch
Promptly desisting from his work, he invited the young pair to seat themselves; and Adela, who was just then stitching at some of her semi-savage contrivances, also rose to offer welcome.
From True and Other Stories by Lathrop, George Parsons
The person on the other side, peering through the opening, had been warned by the same sight of the exposed bare neck, and, desisting from pushing the door wider, was deliberating.
From Murder Point A Tale of Keewatin by Dawson, Coningsby
"Oh—" she cried, desisting, "to think of you, helpless all this time, and in the hands of that woman—!"
From Barnaby A Novel by Ramsay, R.
