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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 sturdy Still a sturdy trend but with a few blemishes. Michael Santoli, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2025 The sturdy nylon exterior is water-resistant and RFID-protected, and its secure zippers can safely hold an AirTag inside to keep track of your belongings during the chaos of a travel day. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 14 Sep. 2025 Crafted from sturdy stoneware, Souper Cubes Ceramic Dishes are safe for use in the freezer, dishwasher, and oven up to 450°F. Mark Marino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 Sep. 2025 Curvaceous yet dominant lines showcase the vessel’s sturdy width, blunt hull, and an unpretentious attitude to exploring. Tristan Rutherford, Robb Report, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sturdy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdy
Adjective
  • French Lavender French lavender (Lavandula dentata) is not as hardy as other varieties of lavender, so a vigorous pruning can kill it.
    Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Native to central Asia, oriental poppies (Papaver orientale) are perennials that are winter-hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3-7.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Washington counts Qatar as a strong Gulf ally.
    Jarrett Renshaw, USA Today, 13 Sep. 2025
  • The audio-streaming platform has amassed a sizable free cash flow due to its strong revenue growth, a figure that has been boosted by the company's swelling active user base in recent financial quarters.
    Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • And when the second half started, Gay couldn’t turn a solid Commanders drive into three more points, banging the ball off the right goal post.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 12 Sep. 2025
  • The company's portfolio includes solid rocket motors (SRMs) ranging from 2 inches to 22 inches in diameter for missiles like the Stinger, Javelin, and air-defense interceptors.
    Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Fighting off predators, fending for food, and living in rugged terrain with harsh conditions – this was not a means of living for the weak.
    Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Limited access and steep rugged terrain will continue to hamper suppression.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 13 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The arched metal guardrails add a design-minded detail, while the solid metal frame is durable and easy to assemble.
    Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 10 Sep. 2025
  • The beloved brand has been around for over 120 years and has earned a respected reputation for its durable, heirloom-quality cookware that spans cast-iron skillets, Dutch ovens, and more.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Tom is a firm believer that comedy is sometimes the best medium to deliver complex messages about family dynamics that are often messy.
    Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 16 Sep. 2025
  • Use a sharp knife to cut individual sprouts off the stalk when the tight little heads, like mini cabbages, feel firm and are 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 16 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Layne faced a really stout Michigan defense in the season opener and predictably struggled, throwing three interceptions in a 34-17 loss.
    Antonio Morales, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2025
  • Singing onstage at New York’s Beacon Theatre or puttering around her house in Brittany, Birkin appears shorter and stouter, with thin lips and sunspots.
    Anahid Nersessian, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Any liquid water on TRAPPIST-1 e would be accompanied by a greenhouse effect, which would involve various gases, especially carbon dioxide, keeping the atmosphere stable and the planet warm.
    Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Your core muscles, back muscles, and balance may improve as your body works to remain stable against the extra weight.
    Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sturdy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdy. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

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