Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective resilient contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of resilient are elastic, flexible, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

When could elastic be used to replace resilient?

The words elastic and resilient can be used in similar contexts, but elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When is it sensible to use flexible instead of resilient?

While in some cases nearly identical to resilient, flexible applies to something which may or may not be resilient or elastic but which can be bent or folded without breaking.

flexible plastic tubing

When can springy be used instead of resilient?

The words springy and resilient are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, springy stresses both the ease with which something yields to pressure and the quickness of its return to original shape.

the cake is done when the top is springy

When would supple be a good substitute for resilient?

While the synonyms supple and resilient are close in meaning, supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Examples 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 resilient Positive news on the economic front came in the form of a significant drop in U.S. initial unemployment claims to a five-month low, indicating a resilient labor market. Vinamrata Chaturvedi, Quartz, 31 Oct. 2024 These tactics help alleviate immediate tensions and foster a more resilient, unified team culture. Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 The performance has owed to enthusiasm about artificial intelligence as well as resilient economic growth and expectations that interest rates would ease, Feinseth said. Max Zahn, ABC News, 5 Nov. 2024 Despite various retrieval attempts—including disassembling the drain pipes and pouring water down the sink—the resilient frog stayed put, emerging occasionally and one time leaving behind evidence. David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for resilient 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resilient
Adjective
  • Underfoot, the flexible sole provides unobtrusive support and a stable, comfortable platform without drawing attention to itself.
    The Editors, Outside Online, 18 Nov. 2024
  • In total, that means the system is more accessible than some mini PCs, but not as flexible or upgradable as a traditional tower.
    PCMAG, PCMAG, 16 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • They’re made from 100-percent cotton shorts with a stretch waistband and side pockets.
    Clint Davis, Peoplemag, 10 June 2024
  • Cellulosic producer Lenzing, stretch fiber producer Roica by Asahi Kasei and Japanese denim mill Kaihara Denim came together to create the Saisei Collection, a range of stretch fabrics made with recycled fibers.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 25 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Prevent a mess of plastic bags under the sink by using these expert organizing hacks.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Nov. 2024
  • Spoon 1/2 cup frosting into a piping bag or ziplock plastic bag; cut a 1/2-inch hole in the tip or corner.
    Tricia Manzanero Stuedeman, Southern Living, 22 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near resilient

Cite this Entry

“Resilient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resilient. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on resilient

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