sturdiness 1 of 2

Definition of sturdinessnext
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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
The freestanding statement piece is made of lightweight plastic that’s easy to move around, and it can also be weighted with sand or stones for extra sturdiness against the elements. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 May 2026 That led to a turnover that created a prime chance for Guentzel, but Schenn was steady, bringing some of the sturdiness Ruff was looking for in front of Buffalo’s net. Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2026
Adjective
For your safety, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026 The company’s sturdy vinyl windows come in many style and color options and are customized to your home. Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sturdiness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdiness
Noun
  • Electronic fuel injection dramatically improved fuel metering, engine reliability, emissions and cold-start performance.
    Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • The researchers identify several hurdles, including manufacturing yield, reliability and production throughput.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 21 July 2026
Noun
  • Morocco also offers American investors a rare combination of political stability, strategic geographic positioning and access to more than 2 billion consumers through its FTAs.
    Panorama Media Ltd, Miami Herald, 19 July 2026
  • But those jobs currently have a PR problem – despite offering ample stability and good pay, too many workers assume the opposite and avoid these jobs.
    Svenja Gudell, Fortune, 18 July 2026
Noun
  • Wall Street looked past geopolitical tensions with benchmark indexes rising on Big Tech strength and signs of easing inflation, even as Middle East hostilities escalated.
    Anniek Bao, CNBC, 16 July 2026
  • Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily in the testicles that helps maintain men’s bone density, fat distribution, muscle strength and mass, facial and body hair, red blood cell production and sperm production.
    Joey Garrison, USA Today, 16 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sturdiness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdiness. Accessed 24 Jul. 2026.

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