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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
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 Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers and strong, sturdy stems. The Spruce, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sturdiness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdiness
Noun
  • Robinson’s attorneys repeatedly questioned the reliability of DNA tests and other evidence.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Robinson's attorneys repeatedly questioned the reliability of DNA tests and other evidence.
    CBS News, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The rocket planes tested reaction-control systems for maneuvering where the air was too thin for normal aerodynamic controls, while gathering data on heating, stability, structural loads, human performance and piloting techniques during reentry.
    Josh Dinner, Space.com, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Iran's acting Defense Minister, Brigadier General Seyed Majid Ibn al-Reza, was quoted Friday by state media as stressing the link between national security and economic stability.
    Khaled Wassef, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Highlighting the strength of the two countries’ ties, Russian state media has shown images of North Korean troops in training inside Russia over the past year, and Kim Jong Un opened a memorial to North Korea’s Ukraine dead in April.
    Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Communities still recovering from last weekend’s hurricane in Hawaii could get pounded again in coming days from another tropical system gaining strength over warm Pacific waters.
    ABC News, ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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