importunacy

[im-pawr-chuh-nuh-see]

noun

1. the quality or condition of being importunate; importunateness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of importunacy¹

First recorded in 1540–50; importun(ate) + -acy

Example Sentences

Importunacy.—There is even an importunacy in relation to works, and the act of associating oneself from early youth on an intimate footing with the illustrious works of all times evinces an entire absence of shame.—Others are only importunate from ignorance, not knowing with whom they have to do—for instance classical scholars young and old in relation to the works of the Greeks.

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He apologised for his importunacy, but he said he hoped that history would not have to record that Italy had been devastated in the time of Clement VII. to the dishonour of the King and of Wolsey.

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She had demanded this lady’s dismissal from the court, and had been so violent that “the King had left her in displeasure, complaining of her importunacy and vexatiousness.”

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“Peace, fool!” he said, and waved his jewelled hand in gentle reproof of importunacy.

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Say that she be; yet Valentine thy friend 105 Survives; to whom, thyself art witness, I am betroth’d: and art thou not ashamed To wrong him with thy importunacy?

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