VocabDictionary

resistant

/rɪˈzɪstənt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Offering opposition or withstanding the effect of something; not easily affected, damaged, or influenced by a particular force or agent.

Example Sentences:
  • The new smartphone features a screen that is highly resistant to scratches and cracks.
  • Some bacteria have become resistant to even the strongest antibiotics currently available.
  • The community remained resistant to the government's plan to build a highway through the park.
2.noun

A person or thing that resists, or a substance that is used to treat something to make it resistant.

Example Sentences:
  • In the clinical trial, the patients were categorized as either responders or resistants.
  • The chemical acts as a resistant against moisture and fungal growth.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “resistant”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'resistentem', the present participle of 'resistere', meaning 'to stand back' or 'withstand'. This is formed from the prefix 're-' (back, again) and 'sistere' (to cause to stand). The word entered English via the Old French 'resistant' in the late 16th century.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'resist'ance band: it is 'resistant' because it fights against the force you apply to it, refusing to give in easily.

Frequently Asked Questions About “resistant

1. What is the meaning of “resistant” in English?

In English, resistant (adjective) is defined as: “Offering opposition or withstanding the effect of something; not easily affected, damaged, or influenced by a particular force or agent.”.

2. How do you use “resistant” in a sentence?

The new smartphone features a screen that is highly resistant to scratches and cracks.

3. What are English synonyms of “resistant”?

Common synonyms include:unyielding,impervious,defiant,tough,immune

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “resistant”?

Derived from the Latin 'resistentem', the present participle of 'resistere', meaning 'to stand back' or 'withstand'. This is formed from the prefix 're-' (back, again) and 'sistere' (to cause to stand). The word entered English via the Old French 'resistant' in the late 16th century.