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 In this tournament, Morocco has tried to develop from the 2022 team, which relied on stout defense, into one that can outplay more teams. Dan Santaromita, New York Times, 9 July 2026 Coupled with its silicone/PU hydrophobic finish and 20D ripstop grid, the fabric promises 4,900-mm waterproofing, stout UV resistance and rugged durability. New Atlas, 28 June 2026 These stout income plays are so valuable, in fact, that some activists are willing to go all the way to the Supreme Court to gain more influence over them. Michael Foster, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026 Saddleback Caterpillar has a stout, brown body about an inch long with a bright green rectangle and an oval saddle marking on its back. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stout
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stout
Adjective
  • Sit toward the front edge of a sturdy chair, hold the sides for support, and lean back slightly while lifting one or both feet a few inches off the floor.
    Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 9 Aug. 2026
  • One track, though, has stood out as an especially sturdy leader.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 9 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
  • 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
  • Despite Aldis's valiant comeback, including a superplex and a King's Lynn Cloverleaf that nearly secured the win, Gunther ultimately prevailed.
    Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • While several countries have tried opt-out systems, France is hoping more muscular obligatory opt-in rules will be more effective.
    ABC News, ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026
  • Some babies that used to die from one genetic disease - spinal muscular atrophy - before their 2nd birthday now are living normal lives.
    Brad Quick, CNBC, 10 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Rookie kicker Trey Smack had a solid night, hitting 6-of-7 field goals, and the team introduced live tackling for younger players.
    Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2026
  • An open floor plan and exposed solid wood beams set a lovely tone for this beautiful home, as does the vintage wood-burning stove and Dutch-style farm doors.
    Elise Taylor, Vogue, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • On Gruinard, the hardy spores hunkered down, waiting for a new host to infect—even decades later.
    RJ Mackenzie, Popular Science, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Fried recommends planting Superior, Toka, Waneta, Alderman, La Crescent, and Underwood for those who need cold-hardy varieties.
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 4 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • An InStyle editor’s mom swears by the Mario Badescu Super Collagen Mask for plump, firm, even skin.
    Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Where Raphael’s infant Christ is plump, acquiescent, docile, Cassatt’s children squirm, resist, and ignore authority.
    Carmen Rosenberg-Miller, Artforum, 6 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The sun in Leo is expressive, vivacious and deeply courageous.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Only one, Andy Jassy, was courageous and smart enough to do it.
    Jim Cramer, CNBC, 2 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Stout.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stout. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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