sturdiness 1 of 2

as in reliability
the ability to withstand force or stress without being distorted, dislodged, or damaged demonstrated the suitcase's sturdiness by dropping it from a third-floor window

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

sturdy

2 of 2

adjective

1
2
as in strong
marked by the ability to withstand stress without structural damage or distortion wear sturdy boots because we will be going over sharp rocks and uneven terrain

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of sturdy are stalwart, stout, strong, tenacious, and tough. While all these words mean "showing power to resist or to endure," sturdy implies strength derived from vigorous growth, determination of spirit, solidity of construction.

a sturdy table
people of sturdy independence

When might stalwart be a better fit than sturdy?

While in some cases nearly identical to sturdy, stalwart suggests an unshakable dependability.

stalwart environmentalists

When could stout be used to replace sturdy?

The meanings of stout and sturdy largely overlap; however, stout suggests an ability to endure stress, pain, or hard use without giving way.

stout hiking boots

When is strong a more appropriate choice than sturdy?

The words strong and sturdy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 is it sensible to use tenacious instead of sturdy?

Although the words tenacious and sturdy have much in common, tenacious suggests strength in seizing, retaining, clinging to, or holding together.

tenacious farmers clinging to an age-old way of life

In what contexts can tough take the place of sturdy?

The words tough and sturdy can be used in similar contexts, but 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 sturdiness
Noun
More than 10,000 shoppers have rated this patio set five stars for its comfort and sturdiness. Rylee Johnston, People.com, 24 Aug. 2025 However, Ball’s power and sturdiness proved to be the difference. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2025
Adjective
Kale Kale is a dark, sturdy leafy green that holds its own amongst your healthiest greens. Lauren O'Connor, Health, 9 Nov. 2025 The shearling is still fluffy, and the soles are sturdy. Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sturdiness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdiness
Noun
  • If accurate even only in part, such a dramatic escalation would cast doubt on the reliability of the election results and put the military at the center of the blame for the outcome.
    Peter D. Feaver, Foreign Affairs, 12 Nov. 2025
  • Although outdoor tests have begun, long-term reliability data remain limited.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Overwintering 'Lemon-Lime' Nandina 'Lemon-Lime' Nandina is winter hardy through USDA zone 6.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 6 Nov. 2025
  • The hardy pupfish are capable of surviving harsh temperatures and severe water conditions that would kill most other fish species, but their population has declined primarily due to habitat loss.
    Shaun McKinnon, AZCentral.com, 4 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 Nov. 2025
  • But despite strong technical progress, widespread adoption remains challenging due to cost, infrastructure demands, and limited technological maturity.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 8 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • For example, a government notice earlier this year referenced a construction project in Shaanxi province belonging to the CASC 4th Academy, which is widely known as the main contractor for solid-fuel rockets.
    Tamara Qiblawi, CNN Money, 7 Nov. 2025
  • The Dolphins chose not to spend the money (or match or surpass other teams’ offers) on several solid contributors after their rookie contracts ended.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The outcome offered further evidence that prioritizing short-term stability over democratic values and accountable governance can invite long-term reversals, a trend that Washington and New Delhi would do well to reckon with.
    MUHIB RAHMAN, Foreign Affairs, 12 Nov. 2025
  • Yet, even as photovoltaic technology advances, engineers continue to chase a balance between efficiency, stability, and cost.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • And, importantly, that now-familiar reliable, rugged push.
    Mirjam Swanson, Oc Register, 8 Nov. 2025
  • For instance, it is equipped with a four-wheel independent drive system, providing maximum mobility across complex and rugged terrain.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Equipped to handle every kind of wintry mix the forecast may bring, this is a durable option that will remain intact all season long.
    Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Swift’s practice reports in the coming days and any follow-ups from the Bears will determine whether this is a short-term rest or something that forces Chicago to chase a more durable midseason addition.
    Rowan Fisher-Shotton, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Major tech companies, including Broadcom, Microsoft, and Nvidia, saw their shares close higher on Monday, while Japanese firm SoftBank sold its stake in Nvidia for a huge profit in order to fund additional AI investments.
    Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 11 Nov. 2025
  • The issue has become the latest flashpoint in yearlong street protests that have shaken Vucic’s firm grip on power.
    CNN Money, CNN Money, 11 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sturdiness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdiness. Accessed 15 Nov. 2025.

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