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as in strong
marked by the ability to withstand stress without structural damage or distortion wear sturdy boots because we will be going over sharp rocks and uneven terrain

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word sturdy different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sturdy are stalwart, stout, strong, tenacious, and tough. While all these words mean "showing power to resist or to endure," sturdy implies strength derived from vigorous growth, determination of spirit, solidity of construction.

a sturdy table
people of sturdy independence

When might stalwart be a better fit than sturdy?

While in some cases nearly identical to sturdy, stalwart suggests an unshakable dependability.

stalwart environmentalists

When could stout be used to replace sturdy?

The meanings of stout and sturdy largely overlap; however, stout suggests an ability to endure stress, pain, or hard use without giving way.

stout hiking boots

When is strong a more appropriate choice than sturdy?

The words strong and sturdy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, strong may imply power derived from muscular vigor, large size, structural soundness, intellectual or spiritual resources.

strong arms
the defense has a strong case

When is it sensible to use tenacious instead of sturdy?

Although the words tenacious and sturdy have much in common, tenacious suggests strength in seizing, retaining, clinging to, or holding together.

tenacious farmers clinging to an age-old way of life

In what contexts can tough take the place of sturdy?

The words tough and sturdy can be used in similar contexts, but tough implies great firmness and resiliency.

a tough political opponent

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sturdy Even at unmentionable speeds, reining in two supercars, the E60 felt rock-steady and sturdy. Sean Evans, Robb Report, 30 Oct. 2024 This should to be relatively thick—think spreadable but sturdy. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Oct. 2024 Some of the main selling points include the sturdy zipper that didn’t snag once during testing and the 600-fill down for its insulated warmth. Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 4 Nov. 2024 In the finish, these sturdy tasting notes split open to reveal sandalwood spice that lingers for several beats. Brad Japhe, Forbes, 3 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sturdy 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdy
Adjective
  • Grains of rocky silica in the plumes suggested the mixtures were created in and around hot, seafloor vents, structures that on Earth provide a home to hardy microbes.
    science.org, science.org, 19 Sep. 2024
  • Overwintering Chocolate Cosmos Chocolate cosmos are reliably winter hardy in USDA zones 9 through 11, where plants die back to the ground in fall and regrow the following spring.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2024
Adjective
  • This results in a charge imbalance that builds up an electric field strong enough to trigger flashes of lightning.
    National Geographic, National Geographic, 13 Jan. 2023
  • According to research from Everytown for Gun Safety, a nonprofit that advocates for gun control, strong gun control laws are correlated with fewer gun deaths.
    Elliot Hughes, Journal Sentinel, 13 Jan. 2023
Adjective
  • Fed Chair Jerome Powell said earlier this month that the central bank does not need to rush to lower rates, citing a solid job market and inflation that remains above its 2% target.
    Lewis Krauskopf, USA TODAY, 30 Nov. 2024
  • Tatcha The Serum Stick $49 $37 Tatcha The Serum Stick is a convenient, compact, and concentrated solid serum that softens fine lines and keeps makeup looking freshly applied all day.
    Annie Blackman, Allure, 30 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Made from 100 percent goat suede, the mid-weight Bandera offers a classic, timeless look that blends rugged durability with natural softness.
    Chris Dorsey, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
  • Truck Ford Ranger: Ford’s popular midsize pickup added a Raptor performance model this year, complementing the rugged looks, utility and advanced features. Ram 1500: Ram’s flagship continues to raise the bar for full-size pickup design.
    Mark Phelan, Detroit Free Press, 21 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Known for its rugged and durable products, Wrangler no doubt makes sturdy suitcases that can handle trains, planes, and automobiles.
    Lauren Bonney, Travel + Leisure, 28 Nov. 2024
  • People were making turkey-feather blankets, which are warmer and more durable than those made with rabbit fur, before 500 CE.
    Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 27 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The high, firm sides will keep your neck supported, and the flat back helps keep your spine aligned.
    Louryn Strampe, WIRED, 29 Nov. 2024
  • Casper Dream is a hybrid option that gives a firmer feel but has a plush, breathable cover to add more cushion.
    Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 29 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Sturm Graz has found the back of the net just once in Champions League play, but has been rather stout on defense, allowing only six.
    Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024
  • Melvin Franklin’s deep voice rolls in strong and stout within the first half-minute.
    Brian McCollum, Detroit Free Press, 24 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The threats Hamas and Hezbollah posed to Israel allowed Iran to exert power across the region while holding Israelis indirectly at risk, which—combined with Israel’s deterrence in the form of its superior military power—produced a stable equilibrium.
    Carrie A. Lee, Foreign Affairs, 19 Nov. 2024
  • Underfoot, the flexible sole provides unobtrusive support and a stable, comfortable platform without drawing attention to itself.
    The Editors, Outside Online, 18 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near sturdy

Cite this Entry

“Sturdy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdy. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on sturdy

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