Definition of stoutnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word stout different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of stout are stalwart, strong, sturdy, tenacious, and tough. While all these words mean "showing power to resist or to endure," stout suggests an ability to endure stress, pain, or hard use without giving way.

stout hiking boots

When can stalwart be used instead of stout?

While the synonyms stalwart and stout are close in meaning, stalwart suggests an unshakable dependability.

stalwart environmentalists

Where would strong be a reasonable alternative to stout?

In some situations, the words strong and stout are roughly equivalent. However, strong may imply power derived from muscular vigor, large size, structural soundness, intellectual or spiritual resources.

strong arms
the defense has a strong case

When would sturdy be a good substitute for stout?

The words sturdy and stout can be used in similar contexts, but sturdy implies strength derived from vigorous growth, determination of spirit, solidity of construction.

a sturdy table
people of sturdy independence

When might tenacious be a better fit than stout?

The words tenacious and stout are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, tenacious suggests strength in seizing, retaining, clinging to, or holding together.

tenacious farmers clinging to an age-old way of life

When is tough a more appropriate choice than stout?

The meanings of tough and stout largely overlap; however, tough implies great firmness and resiliency.

a tough political opponent

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 stout With a run game neutered by a stout Auburn front, the game was on his shoulders. — Connor Riley, AJC.com, 18 Oct. 2026 Surrounded by skyscrapers, the stout, eighteen-story building at the corner of 59th Street and 5th Avenue, just south of Central Park, is more of an icon in the cityscape than any of its super-tall neighbors could hope to be. — Timothy Latterner, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Oct. 2026 Patterson, a Hall of Fame coach known for stout defenses, was supposed to help Riley address the Trojans’ biggest weakness, but the turnaround hasn’t been swift or smooth. — Jordan Puente, Los Angeles Times, 10 Oct. 2026 Ahead of that matchup, Eastern Hills will also need to get past Fort Worth Southwest (2-3, 1-1), a squad with a stout defense. — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stout
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stout
Adjective
  • You also get built-in Wi-Fi for remote app control, 8 months of battery life, and a sturdy IP53 weather-resistant design to ensure your home stays protected around the clock.
    — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026
  • After recognizing the need for sturdier work pants, Strauss partnered with tailor Jacob Davis to develop a design that used copper rivets on denim and duck canvas pants, laying the foundation for the modern blue jean.
    — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Groundhogs have stocky frames and brown coloring and are famous for digging holes and leaving piles of dirt in the process, says Jackel.
    — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 22 Oct. 2026
  • The fries are of the thick, stocky variety and require immediate consumption.
    — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The Florida Panthers were able to mount a valiant comeback in San Jose, rallying from three goals down in the second period and scoring two in the third before ultimately falling in overtime.
    — Austin Perry OutKick, FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Despite a valiant effort on the water, that milestone failed to normalize a more ever-present female presence at the Cup for almost three decades.
    — Stefano Pozzebon, CNN Money, 28 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Coming in the next issue, our White House correspondent Linda Feldmann reports on why that muscular approach – supported by his loyal base – might continue regardless of who wins control of Congress.
    — Mark Trumbull, Christian Science Monitor, 20 Oct. 2026
  • The team revised Rotta’s face and coloring to bring him closer to Jabba while refining his muscular physique.
    — Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Precincts with more votes cast per square mile appear more solid, with areas with lower voter density fade to white.
    — Sean Greene, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2026
  • The sushi was solid and the cocktail program felt thoughtful and exciting.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Obsession™ Nandina is winter hardy in containers through USDA Zone 8.
    — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Trees, shrubs and hardy perennials, however, can generally withstand the cold.
    — WCCO Staff, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Top it off with the Moisture Surge moisturizer, a Vogue editor favorite for a plump, dewy glow.
    — Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026
  • It’s designed to help skin look more hydrated, plump, and firm in one step.
    — Taylor Lane, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Research by Harvard Business School Professor Ranjay Gulati found that courageous and effective leaders create positive narratives that guide them through chaos, often recasting their work as a mission.
    — Olivia Ludington, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026
  • The defeat coming against someone playing such courageous tennis is why Wawrinka’s triumph still resonates.
    — Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 28 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Stout.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stout. Accessed 6 Nov. 2026.

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