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 Standard deer cartridges are fine, but use a stout bullet, either bonded, partition or monolithic. Ron Spomer, Outdoor Life, 19 Aug. 2026 Matthews gave way to a stout bullpen that allowed just one hit over the final five frames. ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026 On a typical day this July, around four Roosevelt impersonators were roaming the streets, identifiable by their mustaches, stout bellies, and dispensing of homespun wisdom. Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 17 Aug. 2026 Combined output is a powerful 437 horsepower and a stout 583 pound-feet of torque. Josh Max, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stout
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stout
Adjective
  • These sturdy and reliable machines are great for both knocking out homework and streaming Netflix, with a big 24-inch FHD monitor that boasts good brightness and wide viewing angles.
    K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Unlike paper wasps, yellow jackets have a shorter, stockier body with a less pronounced narrow waist.
    Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 5 Aug. 2026
  • His 6-foot, 205-pound stocky frame could give him a physicality edge, and his receiving ability could add an intrigue.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • On the 35th anniversary of Ukrainian Independence Day, Field of Vision is launching a new documentary on Ukraine’s valiant fight to maintain its freedom.
    Matthew Carey, Deadline, 24 Aug. 2026
  • What would be the worst moment in a mere mortal’s career, Hoecht turned into a valiant scene.
    Tim Graham, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Roberts said Wednesday that the results suggested the injury was more muscular, rather than nerve related.
    Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Across domains such as cognition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscular strength, that window can end well before a person becomes unhealthy or unable to work.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Investigators have repeatedly dismissed the theories, saying there is no solid evidence to support the claims.
    Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026
  • More Unlike oil which accounts for 95% of foreign exchange earnings, solid minerals have long accounted for barely 1% of Nigeria’s economy.
    Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The rootstock is usually hardier or more disease-resistant than the scion.
    Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026
  • Tropical hibiscus cultivars have a lower success rate than hardy hibiscus varieties, so take multiple cuttings to increase your chances.
    Shelby Vittek, The Spruce, 15 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • And everything is controlled from an iPod beside the ultra-plump bed.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Luong used this liquid blush to restore a natural flush to her makeup, giving her skin a plump, radiant look.
    Essence Wiley, InStyle, 20 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • President Harry Truman’s courageous decision to support the United Nations in defending the South against invasion from the North laid the foundation for today’s remarkably successful Republic of Korea.
    Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2026
  • But no revelation is as courageous or groundbreaking as Panettiere’s description of her experience with postpartum depression.
    Culture Critic, Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Stout.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stout. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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