HARD-BITTEN Synonyms: 83 Similar and Opposite Words

hard-bitten

adjective

ˈhärd-ˈbi-tᵊn

Definition of hard-bitten

as in sturdy

able to withstand hardship, strain, or exposure a hard-bitten Apache chief who could endure the scorching heat of the Arizona desert

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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 hard-bitten Alaska has devolved into a colony of big oil, and its politics have become so closed, hard-bitten, and strident. — Jeremy Eichler, BostonGlobe.com, 12 July 2015

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hard-bitten

Adjective

Made of sturdy beech wood, rounded edges and a light hue soften the beverage cart’s overall look.

— Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 6 Nov. 2026
The Guardian’s April 2025 reporting describes the classic design as a roomy jacket made from sturdy cotton twill or moleskin, typically featuring three patch pockets and a simple collar.

— Ashley Lynch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Nov. 2026

Definition of sturdy

Adjective

How to Cut Back Catmint Catmint is generally hardy and can tolerate substantial amounts of pruning.

— Abby Monteil, The Spruce, 4 Nov. 2026
For those who might shudder at the thought of eating raw hardy greens like collards or kale, this vibrant side inspired by the French bistro classic leeks vinaigrette is the answer.

— Shilpa Uskokovic, Bon Appetit Magazine, 2 Nov. 2026

Definition of hardy

Adjective

For more experienced hikers seeking extremes, the Backcountry Trail is a rugged seven-mile trek with steep grades passing primitive campsites, perfect for spending the night underneath the stars.

— Judith Garrison, AJC.com, 5 Nov. 2026
And as an appropriate choice for such a rugged rendering, the entirety of the Goadome is rendered in black.

— Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2026

Definition of rugged

Adjective

With the balance of power in Tallahassee at stake, Miami’s Republican state senators fended off tough challenges Tuesday night, while Democratic candidates flipped several South Florida state House seats for the minority party in Florida’s capital.

— Miami Herald staff, Miami Herald, 4 Nov. 2026
Whoever wins the contest will be stepping into one of the California’s toughest political jobs.

— Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 4 Nov. 2026

Definition of tough

Adjective

Deficient calcification sometimes occurs naturally, but biologists suspect vitamin D deficiency when teeth are regularly stratified by layers of hardened and soft dentin.

— Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 5 Nov. 2026
O’Brien’s Ted Keegan is a father, farmer and military veteran — a hardened man who’s spent much of his life following orders and keeping secrets.

— Matt Grobar, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of hardened

Adjective

In this vivid and vigorous new biography, literary critic Hermione Lee makes the case for Brookner as a literary figure worth not only remembering but celebrating.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Nov. 2026
Some breathlessness during stair climbing can be normal, especially during vigorous activity.

— Kristen Gasnick, Verywell Health, 29 Oct. 2026

Definition of vigorous

Adjective

The Bears started off well against Seattle's stout defense by putting together a 17-play drive on the opening possession to take the lead when Williams threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to Luther Burden.

— CBS News, CBS News, 3 Nov. 2026
There are plenty of stout diesel engines designed for construction equipment or marine applications that will fit under the hood of a pickup truck or SUV and, as this build demonstrates, improve performance.

— Stephen Edelstein, The Drive, 31 Oct. 2026

Definition of stout

Browse Nearby Words

hardbacks

hard-bitten

hard-boiled

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“Hard-bitten.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hard-bitten. Accessed 9 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of hard-bitten

adjective

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