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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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
Made from sturdy ceramic and adorned with a classic blue and white chinoiserie pattern, the stool has the appearance and feel of an heirloom piece. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Aug. 2026 All of these are captured using his Nikon Z8 and 100-400mm lens, usually set on a sturdy tripod with a fluid head. Patrick Connolly Orlando Sentinel, Arkansas Online, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sturdiness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdiness
Noun
  • The Taurus Moon conjoins Chiron in your 7th House of Partnership, stirring sensitivity around trust, reciprocity, reliability, or whether someone can meet you consistently.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Enjoy sharp text quality, reliable mobile printing via the HP app, and low-cost reliability all semester long.
    Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 5 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Ask the practical question, choose the affordable step, and let stability feel supportive.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 8 Aug. 2026
  • Turkey describes the pact as an important step toward regional stability.
    ABC News, ABC News, 8 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • For now, though, Denver appears focused on preserving Bo Nix’s favorite target for a full-strength playoff run.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Jacas, whose reps have steadily increased over the week, has by no means dominated for even a stretch of practice, but flashes of excellent upper-body strength and burst off the line are there.
    Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 6 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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