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

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 resilient In my view, the assurance of a stable, resilient supply chain for these minerals is not merely an economic necessity but also key to energy sovereignty and technological leadership in an era defined by climate urgency. Sahit Muja, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Spring added that the consumer remains resilient and continues to spend on new items and fashion. Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2025 But Davids proved resilient, increasing her margin of victory over 2020 in a rematch with Amanda Adkins. Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 3 Sep. 2025 Restore and maintain park ecosystems in a natural, resilient condition. Stephanie Murray, AZCentral.com, 28 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resilient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resilient
Adjective
  • Strategies will remain flexible to adjust to changing fire behavior, terrain, and resource availability.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 6 Sep. 2025
  • By learning from nature’s most flexible swimmer, the octopus, researchers hope to overcome these challenges and make underwater machines more capable, adaptable, and sustainable.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 5 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Triumph loose fit jeans are made with stretch denim.
    may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Mark Ix, Advance Denim’s director of North American marketing, said Infinity enables a new level of stretch performance with exceptional yields and comfort.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 21 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Unique Props and Figurines From plastic skeletons posed in mid-dance to rubber bats and ceramic black cats, vintage Halloween props add personality and whimsy to your displays.
    Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Aug. 2025
  • Around 20 elephants died over an eight-year period at a single site in Ampara after consuming indigestible food wrappers and other plastic waste.
    Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 26 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resilient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resilient. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on resilient

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