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
Beloved for its sturdiness and easy assembly, as well as its farmhouse-leaning frame style, this bed is an excellent budget option. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 16 July 2026 This wicker patio furniture set has racked up more than 11,500 perfect ratings from shoppers, who highlight its value considering cost, sturdiness, and comfort. Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026
Adjective
Tight end One of the encouraging developments was the sturdy blocking of third round pick Will Kacmarek, who cleared out space on Achane’s touchdown. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 15 Aug. 2026 Take shelter immediately in the lowest level of a sturdy building, preferably in an interior room away from windows. Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sturdiness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdiness
Noun
  • Rare earth processing technologies must compete on throughput, operating costs, purity, and reliability.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Freight rates have continued their ascent amid the ongoing delays and schedule reliability concerns compounding other factors like the war in Iran, which has kept fuel costs elevated.
    Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 24 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • This is a vehicle for anyone craving intense driving dynamics from an unusual, innovative machine that blends a car’s stability with much of the excitement and exposure of a motorcycle.
    William Roberson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • All in all, the Fed should not be influenced by fiscal policy or politics, because their remit is financial stability.
    Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The show is leaning into its strengths, dialing up the madcap comedy and overlapping dialogue while keeping the story lines rooted in recognizable rites of passage for young people.
    Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Divya brings an incredible depth and emotional strength to the ensemble, and the combination of these three actors makes the world of the film particularly special.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 27 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sturdiness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdiness. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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