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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 Flowers stand on sturdy, upright stems and make excellent cuttings that last up to two weeks in a vase. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 27 Oct. 2025 The cushions are high quality and provide stable support for years, while the covers are plenty sturdy enough to be washed frequently without looking worn out. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 23 Oct. 2025 Any question which of those teams has a stout and sturdy offensive line? Mirjam Swanson, Oc Register, 20 Oct. 2025 Choose big, sturdy blooms and tuck them into the gaps in your artificial Christmas tree once it’s fully decorated. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 20 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sturdy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sturdy
Adjective
  • Bring in Cold-Sensitive Potted Plants Many of our favorite plants on our decks or patios are not frost-hardy.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Oct. 2025
  • When planning your garden, knowing your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone can help determine which cold-hardy plants will grow best in your climate.
    Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Rockets big man Alperen Şengün was limited to 5-of-18 shooting after a strong season opener in Oklahoma City.
    Hunter Patterson, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025
  • Smith cited a strong support network for transgender students on campus during her appearance.
    Joshua Rhett Miller, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • There were other signs of encouragement, like Diouf and Crysencio Summerville’s left-wing partnership, plus Freddie Potts’ solid cameo appearance.
    Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025
  • Crafted from solid wood with a contoured seat and gently curved back, this chair combines comfort with a modern yet classic look, ideal for gatherings and everyday meals alike.
    Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX Trail Running Shoes While most hiking shoes have a more rugged, utilitarian look, these Hoka hikers lend more towards stylish.
    Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2025
  • Hokkaido is known for its rugged natural beauty, cold winters and thriving agricultural and seafood industries.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The tops of the shoes are made out of a durable and comfortable natural hemp blend in the shade ivory.
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Score an extra 20% off both the Queen and King sizes and save over $100 on the durable quilt.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Ten years ago, while using GPS and weather-monitoring equipment, researchers developed a theory that a combination of ice, sunlight, rain, and high winds creates a scenario where the stones could feasibly be pushed across the firm but muddy surface of the former lake.
    Graham Averill, Outside, 28 Oct. 2025
  • Local students tend to know about the province’s nationalistic perspective, due to their high school curriculum, but this deliberately (and understandably) obfuscates the larger Canadian picture to try to foster a firmer attachment to Quebec’s language and culture.
    Dónal Gill, The Dial, 28 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Later, the Cowboys and their high-octane offense will face the stout Broncos defense.
    Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Jović had a relatively quiet opener against Orlando’s stout defense (nine points in 23 minutes) before going for 20 points, six rebounds and four assists off the bench Friday.
    John Hollinger, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Plus, the rubber sole adds traction to keep you stable on wet or slippery surfaces.
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Research finds that building and maintaining stable, healthy relationships increases resilience and emotional wellbeing.
    Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 29 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sturdy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sturdy. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

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