resistant

1 of 2

adjective

re·​sis·​tant ri-ˈzi-stənt 

: 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

Adjective

This thick, glass set has a mid-century modern feel that’s not only stylish, but also heat-resistant and durable. —Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2025

The microfiber shell is wrinkle- and fade-resistant, meaning this quilt will look good as new year after year. —Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Dec. 2025

The lanai — with hurricane-resistant glass — offers panoramic views. —David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 22 Dec. 2025

While its fungus-resistant nature reduces the need for pesticides and is considered an advantage in a changing climate, the house’s dedication is to old varieties and traditional agriculture, not novelty or experimental pours. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 21 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1548, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing resistant

• heat resistant
• vancomycin-resistant enterococcus
• water-resistant

Rhymes for resistant

• assistant
• consistent
• existent
• insistent
• persistent
• subsistent
• coexistent
• equidistant
• inconsistent
• nonexistent
• preexistent
• distant

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

-tənt 

: giving, capable of, or exhibiting resistance

—often used in combination

a drug-resistant strain of virus