resistance

¹re·sis·tance

noun \ri-ˈzis-tən(t)s\

Definition of RESISTANCE

1

a : an act or instance of resisting : opposition b : a means of resisting

2

: the power or capacity to resist: as a : the inherent ability of an organism to resist harmful influences (as disease, toxic agents, or infection) b : the capacity of a species or strain of microorganism to survive exposure to a toxic agent (as a drug) formerly effective against it

3

: an opposing or retarding force

4

a : the opposition offered by a body or substance to the passage through it of a steady electric current b : a source of resistance

5

: a psychological defense mechanism wherein a patient rejects, denies, or otherwise opposes the therapeutic efforts of a psychotherapist

6

often capitalized : an underground organization of a conquered or nearly conquered country engaging in sabotage and secret operations against occupation forces and collaborators

Examples of RESISTANCE

1. They have shown a stubborn resistance to change.
2. The troops met heavy resistance as they approached the city.
3. The paint shows good weather resistance.
4. Over time the patient could develop a resistance to the drug.

First Known Use of RESISTANCE

14th century

Related to RESISTANCE

Synonyms: defiance, opposition

Antonyms: acquiescence

Related Words: demur, objection, protest, remonstrance; compunction, misgiving, reservation; disobedience, noncompliance, recalcitrance

Near Antonyms: compliance, obedience; acceptance, approval

see all synonyms and antonyms

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