View synonyms for desist

desist

[ dih-sist, -zist ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used without object)

to cease, as from some action or proceeding; stop.

desist

/ dɪˈzɪst /

verb

introften foll byfrom to cease, as from an action; stop or abstain

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Derived Forms

deˈsistance, noun

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Other Words From

de·sist·ance de·sist·ence noun
non·de·sist·ing adjective noun
un·de·sist·ing adjective

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Word History and Origins

Origin of desist¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Old French desister, from Latin dēsistere “to leave off,” equivalent to dē- de- + sistere “to stand, place,” akin to stāre “to stand” ( stand )

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Word History and Origins

Origin of desist¹

C15: from Old French desister, from Latin dēsistere to leave off, stand apart, from de- + sistere to stand, halt

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Idioms and Phrases

see cease and desist .

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Example Sentences

That 2023 letter explicitly revoked the authorization and ordered Colosseum Rare Metals to cease and desist any activities other than water quality monitoring.

From Los Angeles Times

A "cease and desist" letter usually represents a warning that the recipient will face legal action if they continue the allegedly unlawful activity.

From BBC

While Cantor Fitzgerald agreed to cease and desist from further alleged violations, the firm neither confirmed nor denied the charges.

From Salon

In spite of a cease and desist letter sent to Trump last year, the disco act's songs have remained a part of his events.

From Salon

Registrars in at least 12 counties also reported receiving “cease and desist” letters from members of New California State, a group seeking to split the state along rural versus urban political ideologies.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

-desis desistance

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