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Definition of sinewy
sinewy
/ˈsɪn.juː.i/
sin · ew · y
sinewy Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
3
sinewy Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adjective
1
Having lean, strong, and clearly visible muscles and tendons; tough and wiry in build.
Example
"The rock climber gripped the narrow ledge with his long, sinewy arms."
2
Consisting of or resembling tough, fibrous tissue or tendons (especially of meat).
Example
"The inexpensive cut of beef was too sinewy to roast quickly, so she braised it for several hours."
3
Vigorous, forceful, and free of unnecessary ornamentation (especially of writing, language, or style).
Example
"The historian is admired for her sinewy prose that cuts straight to the heart of complex political events."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for sinewy Antonyms
View all antonyms for sinewyWord Origin & Etymology
Formed in Middle English from the noun 'sinew' (from Old English 'sinu', meaning tendon) combined with the adjectival suffix '-y'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sinewy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sinewy