Definition of sturdynext
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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 Some highlights include the intuitive interface, sturdy inner pot, Keep Warm function, fuzzy logic technology, and an impressive 10 different presets. Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 June 2026 Taub says as much himself — the funds spread their risk, and the sturdiest loans carry firm contractual protection. Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 Cover your head and neck under sturdy furniture if possible. Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 25 June 2026 If possible, drive to a nearby sturdy building. Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for sturdy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdy
Adjective
  • Modales leans into cold-hardy grapes varieties like blaufränkisch, the spicy Austrian red variety that has become a favorite by-the-glass pour at Ox Bar.
    Anna Lee Iijima, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026
  • PeeGee thrives in summer heat and is exceptionally cold-hardy, tolerating full sun and partial shade.
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Projections varied in the weeks leading up to the draft with no real consensus among draft analysts, but in the last 24 hours there were strong indications the Clippers would choose Wagler and the Nets would take Brown.
    Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026
  • Your desire for solitude and introspection is strong during today’s Scorpio moon.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • Affordable July 4 destinations July 4 may be a peak travel period, but travelers can still snag some solid deals for a beach vacation.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 24 June 2026
  • Plenty of the group stage games have gone 0-0 before players returned to the locker room, but at least solid chances have been created.
    Monica Alba, NBC news, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • In the midst of the rugged match, Sweden lost one of its top players to a non-contact injury.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 June 2026
  • The search for Gracie the giraffe, missing in Texas, hit its two-week mark on June 25 as the manager of her ranch is continuing to scour rugged terrain from the ground and sky.
    Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • These core traits empower marketing teams to build durable success, providing a solid foundation rather than just chasing attention.
    Olivia Shalhoup, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
  • Videos of World Cup tourists trying — and raving — about Taco Bell, ranch dressing, even gas station Twinkies, have become the most durable meme of this year’s tournament.
    Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Scrub firm fruits and vegetables such as melons and cucumbers.
    DeJanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 30 June 2026
  • But the Queen ends with a firm look from the throne, tears still streaming from her eyes.
    Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Saddleback Caterpillar has a stout, brown body about an inch long with a bright green rectangle and an oval saddle marking on its back.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 22 June 2026
  • Turning its back on views of the Santa Rita Mountains, the home’s interior revolved around a dim central kitchen and an awkward sunken garden bounded by stout masonry columns that held up the roof but restricted movement through the space.
    Fred Albert, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • Both Dayana Patino and her baby son Juan David Trujillo were in a stable condition on Sunday in hospital in the Venezuelan capital Caracas, AP reported.
    Gonzalo Zegarra, CNN Money, 29 June 2026
  • Four were listed in critical condition, and six others, including the driver, were listed in stable condition.
    Lisa Rozner, CBS News, 29 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sturdy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdy. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

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