desist

[ dih-sist, -zist ]

verb (used without object)

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

desist

/ dɪˈzɪst /

verb

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

Derived Forms

• deˈsistance, noun

Other Words From

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

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 )

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

Idioms and Phrases

see cease and desist .

Example Sentences

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

Min accused Baugh of lying about his record and responded by sending a cease and desist letter to his opponent’s Huntington Beach home, according to a video posted on Min’s campaign website.

From Los Angeles Times

Ukraine's allies, including the UK and US, have so far desisted from allowing their long-range missiles to be launched on targets inside Russia.

From BBC

The BBC has seen a cease and desist letter against the singer earlier this week from another of Payne's former partners, Maya Henry, which "pertains to alleged egregious conduct".

From BBC

Collins, issued a cease and desist letter to Donald Trump's campaign team.

From BBC

Related Words

• abstain
• cease
• relinquish