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

Massimo The truck is built on a sturdy steel frame that’s attached to a coilover suspension system on all four sides.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 25 Sep. 2026
Unlike plastic containers, these sturdy steel swaps won’t stain, warp, or hold onto pesky odors.

— Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of sturdy

Adjective

Of course, a yeast that can survive on Mars is … well, a yeast that can survive on Mars, which could actually risk contaminating the planet with hardy and fast-multiplying Earth microbes.

— Kiona N. Smith, Space.com, 17 Sep. 2026
Overall, top candidates for bare-root planting include deciduous fruit trees, roses, berry bushes, and hardy perennials, as these plants handle winter dormancy exceptionally well.

— SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of hardy

Adjective

Available in a dozen colors, this jacket has a timeless but rugged style and features four pockets for your essentials.

— BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Sep. 2026
From the charming courtyards and upscale fashion boutiques tucked behind Worth Avenue to the rugged majesty of Jupiter’s inlets, the region is a playground for the curious traveler.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026

Definition of rugged

Adjective

With phones, keys, multi-tools, flashlights, water bottles and charging cables, the modern trouser and jacket pocket has a tough job coping.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 29 Sep. 2026
Trump’s proclamation would have delayed compliance with the tougher standards from 2027 until 2029, though EPA ultimately repealed them in February.

— Luke Fountain, CNBC, 29 Sep. 2026

Definition of tough

Adjective

Its government, dominated by hardened veterans of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and largely indifferent to the suffering of the Iranian population, appears determined to fight on.

— RICHARD HAASS, Foreign Affairs, 23 Sep. 2026
Severe neuropathy can dull the sensation of excessive pressure, raising injury risk, and advanced lymphedema with hardened swelling calls for medical advice first.

— Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of hardened

Adjective

The guidelines also recommend pairing the strength training with 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (or 75–150 minutes of vigorous activity) each week.

— Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 29 Sep. 2026
Miss Neal is vibrant and lovely as the young widow, and Hugh Marlowe is vigorous as her ambitious suitor.

— THR Staff, HollywoodReporter, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of vigorous

Adjective

Denver is a tough place to play, and the Broncos defense is stout.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026
Despite the offensive struggles, a stout defense kept the Panthers within striking distance, allowing FAU (2-1) to score only 10 points off those three turnovers.

— Alejandro Hernandez, Miami Herald, 20 Sep. 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 1 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of hard-bitten

adjective

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