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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

Example 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 But for short flights and everyday adventures, my Reebok Nano X4s are the best pick with their sturdy soles, supportive fit, lightweight fit, and ache-free memory foam cushioning. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2025 Designed by Hydro Tec, the modern, muscular exterior is characterized by a sturdy steel displacement hull, a distinctive bulbous bow, and a lightweight aluminum superstructure. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 27 Oct. 2025 Each shelf holds up to 15 pounds for sturdy, stylish storage. Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 27 Oct. 2025 Flowers stand on sturdy, upright stems and make excellent cuttings that last up to two weeks in a vase. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sturdy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdy
Adjective
  • When temperatures drop well below 0, less cold-hardy azaleas could be killed back to the ground.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 Oct. 2025
  • The storm hardy island could feel some of the storm’s outer bands, and officials have issued a hurricane warning for the island.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Smith said Thursday in a news release that Stubblefield leaves behind a legacy of strong, principled leadership.
    Ella McCarthy, Arkansas Online, 31 Oct. 2025
  • Toklas went on to fiercely uphold the author’s legacy, honoring Stein’s apparent desire to be understood while at the same time respecting her equally strong wish to remain elusive.
    Daphne Merkin, The Atlantic, 31 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Scott Parker’s team possess all of the qualities that Vincent Kompany’s side lacked — a solid defensive foundation, togetherness, fighting spirit, and valuable top-flight experience led by example from defender Kyle Walker and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.
    Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 31 Oct. 2025
  • Certain closet staples are well worth investing in, but finding comparable styles at a more affordable price point can make building a solid seasonal wardrobe more realistic.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX Trail Running Shoes While most hiking shoes have a more rugged, utilitarian look, these Hoka hikers lend more towards stylish.
    Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2025
  • Hokkaido is known for its rugged natural beauty, cold winters and thriving agricultural and seafood industries.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The tops of the shoes are made out of a durable and comfortable natural hemp blend in the shade ivory.
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Score an extra 20% off both the Queen and King sizes and save over $100 on the durable quilt.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Ten years ago, while using GPS and weather-monitoring equipment, researchers developed a theory that a combination of ice, sunlight, rain, and high winds creates a scenario where the stones could feasibly be pushed across the firm but muddy surface of the former lake.
    Graham Averill, Outside, 28 Oct. 2025
  • Local students tend to know about the province’s nationalistic perspective, due to their high school curriculum, but this deliberately (and understandably) obfuscates the larger Canadian picture to try to foster a firmer attachment to Quebec’s language and culture.
    Dónal Gill, The Dial, 28 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The back end of the bullpen is stout, yet the lineup is dreadfully short.
    Stephen J. Nesbitt, New York Times, 3 Nov. 2025
  • Collins has been one of the more stout edge defenders in his five years in the league, and the Cowboys could desperately use a savvy veteran run defender to contain the edge.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Plus, the rubber sole adds traction to keep you stable on wet or slippery surfaces.
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Research finds that building and maintaining stable, healthy relationships increases resilience and emotional wellbeing.
    Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 29 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sturdy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdy. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

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