sturdy

adjective stur·dy \ˈstər-dē\

: strongly made

: strong and healthy

: having or showing mental or emotional strength

stur·di·erstur·di·est

Full Definition of STURDY

a : firmly built or constituted : stout

b : hardy <sturdy plants>

c : sound in design or execution : substantial

a : marked by or reflecting physical strength or vigor

b : firm, resolute

c : rugged, stable

— stur·di·ly \ˈstər-də-lē\ adverb

— stur·di·ness \ˈstər-dē-nəs\ noun

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Origin of STURDY

Middle English, brave, stubborn, from Anglo-French esturdi stunned, from past participle of esturdir to stun, from Vulgar Latin *exturdire, from Latin ex- + Vulgar Latin *turdus simpleton, from Latin turdus thrush — more at thrush

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to STURDY

Synonyms: cast-iron, hard, hard-bitten, hardened, inured, rugged, stout, strong, hardy, tough, toughened, vigorous

Antonyms: delicate, nonhardy, soft, tender, weak

Synonym Discussion of STURDY

strong, stout, sturdy, stalwart, tough, tenacious mean showing power to resist or to endure. strong may imply power derived from muscular vigor, large size, structural soundness, intellectual or spiritual resources <strong arms> <the defense has a strong case>. stout suggests an ability to endure stress, pain, or hard use without giving way <stout hiking boots>. sturdy implies strength derived from vigorous growth, determination of spirit, solidity of construction <a sturdy table> <people of sturdy independence>. stalwart suggests an unshakable dependability <stalwart environmentalists>. tough implies great firmness and resiliency <a tough political opponent>. tenacious suggests strength in seizing, retaining, clinging to, or holding together <tenacious farmers clinging to an age-old way of life>.