Inveterate/ɪnˈvetərət/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Deeply Rooted It implies a habit that's ingrained and hard to change because it's been done for a long time. She is an inveterate reader of mystery novels. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Implication Often used for bad habits or negative traits, suggesting they're a part of the person's nature. His inveterate laziness has cost him several jobs. Pro Tip 3/3Often Personal Typically refers to individual habits rather than groups or organizations. Despite the new law, he remains an inveterate jaywalker.