1
: opposed to something : wanting to prevent something from happening
—usually + to
People are often resistant to change.
2
: not affected or harmed by something
These plants are resistant to cold temperatures.
He became resistant to the medication.
—often used in combinationa water-resistant watch
Cite this Entry
“Resistant.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/resistant. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.
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