withstand
Hold against pressure
Withstand means to resist or endure something that threatens, pressures, or challenges.
The word typically applies to forces that would otherwise cause damage, defeat, or collapse: The bridge was built to withstand earthquakes, She withstood intense criticism without backing down.
What distinguishes withstand from simply endure is the implication of successful resistance—whatever is withstood does not prevail.
Suffer through without yielding
- persevereContinue despite obstacles
- surviveContinue to exist
- toleratePermit without approval
- bearLarge furry omnivore
sustain · outlast · overcome · prevail · weather · persist · abide · brave
Oppose or refuse compliance
- opposeAct against something
- blockSolid mass, or impede
- counteractNullify by opposing force
- repelDrive off or disgust
defend · fight · combat · confront · prevent · obstruct · thwart · rebuff
Fortitude facing danger
- braveryBoldness before danger
- gritDetermination or abrasive particles
- tenacityPersistent grip or resolve
- perseveranceSustained resolve despite obstacles
mettle · backbone · determination · stamina · resolve · steadfastness · inner strength · willpower
Resilient durability under strain
- resilienceCapacity to recover quickly
- strengthPower to exert force
- robustnessResistance to failure
- sturdinessStrength and solidity
hardiness · stability · longevity · indestructibility · wear-resistant · corrosion-resistant · impact-resistant · heavy-duty
endure
Suffer through without yielding
bear · sustain · outlast · overcome · prevail · weather · persist · abide · brave · outlive
resist
Oppose or refuse compliance
- opposeAct against something
- blockSolid mass, or impede
- counteractNullify by opposing force
repel · defend · fight · combat · confront · prevent · obstruct · thwart · rebuff · parry
courage
Fortitude facing danger
- braveryBoldness before danger
- gritDetermination or abrasive particles
- tenacityPersistent grip or resolve
perseverance · mettle · backbone · determination · stamina · resolve · steadfastness · inner strength · willpower · pluck
toughness
Resilient durability under strain
- resilienceCapacity to recover quickly
- strengthPower to exert force
- robustnessResistance to failure
sturdiness · hardiness · stability · longevity · indestructibility · wear-resistant · corrosion-resistant · impact-resistant · heavy-duty · reinforced