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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 Made of sturdy canvas with leather-like details and pockets aplenty, it’s built tough for outdoor exploring, yet looks sharp enough to carry to the office. Miles Walls, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2025 The new jobs data caps off another year of sturdy job gains since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Sylvan Lane, The Hill, 10 Jan. 2025 Construction quality is typical for a camera lens; the materials feel sturdy, and despite its extremely low price, Viltrox uses metal for the bayonet mount that attaches to the camera body. PCMAG, 6 Jan. 2025 This seven-piece tool set from Walmart comes with a sturdy yet lightweight stool. Fox News, 2 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for sturdy 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdy
Adjective
  • For container plants, select species that are hardy to two zones colder than your area to ensure winter survival.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2025
  • Liquid water is essential for supporting all life, even the hardy methanogens.
    Paul Sutter, Space.com, 1 Jan. 2025
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
  • The Jayhawks hope solid defense translates well on the road Saturday.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 11 Jan. 2025
  • But last year's average of 186,000 new jobs a month still slightly exceeds the pre-pandemic average of 182,000 from 2016-2019, solid years for the economy.
    PAUL WISEMAN THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, arkansasonline.com, 11 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • South Eleuthera: With deserted beaches, rugged cliffs and a beautiful marina, South Eleuthera offers a glimpse of untouched Bahamian beauty.
    Laura Begley Bloom, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024
  • Known for its rugged terrain and challenging road conditions, the area often presents hazards for long-distance travel.
    George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 30 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • All three trends underscore the rise of the ultra-discerning consumer, seeking more durable, high quality and sustainable products.
    Sofia Celeste, WWD, 8 Jan. 2025
  • Get 28% off the Crucial X9 Pro, a durable, secure external SSD ideal for everyday use.
    Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 8 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • By Ryan Smith Senior Pop Culture & Entertainment Reporter 0 Connections has become to be a firm favorite among word-puzzle fans since arriving on the scene a little over a year and a half ago.
    Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 10 Jan. 2025
  • Meanwhile, your credentials still remain a firm target for criminals and scammers.
    Zak Doffman, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Riley Leonard's steady hand and the Fighting Irish's stout defense will be the difference in a tight battle.
    Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 10 Jan. 2025
  • There won’t be a lack of talent on the field, with both teams being led by their stout defenses.
    Cameron Teague Robinson and Sam Khan Jr., The Athletic, 10 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Warframe is the model that the industry largely ignores, for whatever reason, despite being arguably the most successful and stable.
    Paul Tassi, Forbes, 12 Jan. 2025
  • In addition to Strong's scrap and boatyard, the stable where Curly would care for Tommy's racehorses resided here.
    Matt Cabral, EW.com, 12 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near sturdy

Cite this Entry

“Sturdy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdy. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sturdy

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