durable

Definition of durablenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective durable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of durable are lasting, permanent, and stable. While all these words mean "enduring for so long as to seem fixed or established," durable implies power to resist destructive agencies.

durable fabrics

When would lasting be a good substitute for durable?

In some situations, the words lasting and durable are roughly equivalent. However, lasting implies a capacity to continue indefinitely.

a book that left a lasting impression on me

When is permanent a more appropriate choice than durable?

While in some cases nearly identical to durable, permanent adds usually the implication of being designed or planned to stand or continue indefinitely.

permanent living arrangements

When could stable be used to replace durable?

The meanings of stable and durable largely overlap; however, stable implies lastingness because of resistance to being overturned or displaced.

a stable government

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 durable Egyptian cotton uses long-staple fibers that are exceptionally soft and durable, but labeling isn’t always trustworthy — look for Cotton Egypt Association verification before paying a premium. Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 21 Apr. 2026 Perfect for carrying daily must-haves and any bouquets or other gardening supplies your recipient may pick up in the future, the tote is made from durable canvas and is medium-sized with long handles for easy carrying. Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 21 Apr. 2026 The solid wood frame is durable and sleek enough to work with a number of design styles, from farmhouse to eclectic. Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 21 Apr. 2026 The set of four glasses is made of durable Tritan plastic. Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for durable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for durable
sturdy
Adjective
  • The team-captain label and All-American honors help, but the real selling points are Schrauth’s sturdy frame, strong hands and a physical style that works in tight quarters.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Apr. 2026
  • In an untitled work from 1995, a cluster of sturdy wagons sits at the edge of a frozen lake, a site where her family of peripatetic horse traders often camped.
    Ben Davis, The New York Review of Books, 25 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Durable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/durable. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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