importunity

[ im-pawr-too-ni-tee, -tyoo- ]

noun

, plural im·por·tu·ni·ties

1. the state or quality of being importunate; persistence in solicitation.
2. importunities, importunate solicitations or demands.

Word History and Origins

Origin of importunity¹

1425–75; late Middle English importunite < Latin importūnitās. See importune, -ity

Example Sentences

She does this while offering him no emotional response to his importunities whatsoever.

From New York Times

The National Football League’s D.C. franchise owner Mr. Snyder stubbornly — and yes, courageously — resisted the name-change importunities and threats of the Left for years.

From Washington Times

In her footsteps, women had to take the next move as resisters of unwarranted prejudice: "Sue for your rights and privileges. Know the reason that you cannot attain them. Weary them with your importunities."

From Salon

Recent Iraqi street protests against Iran’s overweening influence may now be eclipsed by a bigger struggle against the US and its much-resented importunities.

From The Guardian

Iran’s neo-colonial importunities in Iraq and Lebanon are under vocal attack.

From The Guardian

Related Words

• application
• bid
• call
• claim
• demand
• overture
• petition
• plea
• proposal
• question
• suit