as in opposes
to refuse to give in to
it is important to resist the temptation to run away from your problems
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Recent Examples of resists
The tabletop sits on a sturdy cross-shaped base and resists scratches and stains.
—
Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2026
When Bz points north, Earth’s field resists it; when Bz swings south, the two fields connect, allowing plasma to stream in.
—Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Jaime resists Colby at first — not for long, really — after which, their physical interplay is presented with her pleasure as the priority.
—Peter Debruge, Variety, 27 Jan. 2026
If a friend resists change, invite them into the decision process to ensure everyone has a chance to offer input.
—Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 22 Jan. 2026
Like a concealer that resists settling into fine lines or a hair oil that leaves strands glistening, not greasy, a retinol cream suitable for dry, sensitive skin is somewhat of a rarity in the beauty world.
—Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 21 Jan. 2026
If the bolt resists, stop and reapply the oil.
—Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 15 Jan. 2026
Unlike traditional cast-iron skillets, this one is coated in a black satin enamel that prevents food from sticking to the bottom, resists rust, and doesn’t require seasoning or regular upkeep.
—Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 13 Jan. 2026
The state still exercises weak and ineffective oversight, and still resists much meaningful change.
—Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 12 Jan. 2026
Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2026
When Bz points north, Earth’s field resists it; when Bz swings south, the two fields connect, allowing plasma to stream in.
—Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Jaime resists Colby at first — not for long, really — after which, their physical interplay is presented with her pleasure as the priority.
—Peter Debruge, Variety, 27 Jan. 2026
If a friend resists change, invite them into the decision process to ensure everyone has a chance to offer input.
—Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 22 Jan. 2026
Like a concealer that resists settling into fine lines or a hair oil that leaves strands glistening, not greasy, a retinol cream suitable for dry, sensitive skin is somewhat of a rarity in the beauty world.
—Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 21 Jan. 2026
If the bolt resists, stop and reapply the oil.
—Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 15 Jan. 2026
Unlike traditional cast-iron skillets, this one is coated in a black satin enamel that prevents food from sticking to the bottom, resists rust, and doesn’t require seasoning or regular upkeep.
—Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 13 Jan. 2026
The state still exercises weak and ineffective oversight, and still resists much meaningful change.
—Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 12 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resists
Verb
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In the movie, Neil (Richard Benjamin in his feature film debut) opposes the competitive, consumerist values fervently practiced by Brenda’s family.—
Jim Hemphill,
IndieWire,
31 Jan. 2026
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Getty Images Turkey opposes a military intervention against warning such an action would lead to regional instability.—
Yuliya Talmazan,
NBC news,
30 Jan. 2026
Verb
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The key to effectively cleaning a grill is a durable grill brush that withstands high heat, like this $30 option that’s made sans metal bristles.—
Stephanie Osmanski,
Better Homes & Gardens,
27 Jan. 2026
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And while most silicone kitchen gear withstands high heat, some cooking utensils are of lower quality and may degrade when exposed to high temperatures.—
Brandee Gruener,
Southern Living,
21 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Resists.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resists. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.
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