resistant

1 of 2

adjective

re·​sis·​tant ri-ˈzi-stənt How to pronounce resistant (audio)
: giving, capable of, or exhibiting resistance
often used in combination
wrinkle-resistant clothes
a drug-resistant strain of virus

resistant

2 of 2

noun

: one that resists : resister

Examples of resistant in a Sentence

Adjective These plants are resistant to cold temperatures. He became resistant to the medication.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adjective
Both Roseman and Fangio have been fairly resistant to moving Cooper DeJean, their starting nickel, to outside cornerback, although the CB2 spot was a question mark during the offseason and has at times been a liability during the 2025 season. Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 5 Nov. 2025 Before using fabric softener, always check the care label and, in general, avoid the use of liquid fabric softener and dryer sheets when laundering flame resistant children's sleepwear, workout gear, and towels. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2025 Crafted from impact-resistant polycarbonate, this suitcase weighs 7 pounds, which is the most lightweight that Arlo Skye offers. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 4 Nov. 2025 The denser and heat-resistant components that may survive the plunge will splash down into the ocean, where they are expected to harmlessly sink to the ocean floor, according to NASA. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 4 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resistant

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1548, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of resistant was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Resistant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/resistant. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

resistant

adjective
re·​sis·​tant
ri-ˈzis-tənt
: giving, capable of, or showing resistance
often used in combination
wrinkle-resistant clothes

Medical Definition

resistant

adjective
re·​sis·​tant
variants also resistent
: giving, capable of, or exhibiting resistance
often used in combination
a drug-resistant strain of virus

More from Merriam-Webster on resistant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!