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Definition of withstand

withstand

/wɪðˈstænd/
with · stand
Adjective:withstandable
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Past Simple:withstood
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Past Participle:withstood
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Present Participle:withstanding
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withstand Lexical Profile

withstand Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To remain undamaged or unaffected by a physical force, harsh environment, or severe stress.

Example

"The ancient stone bridge was engineered to withstand seasonal flooding and heavy traffic."

2

To offer strong resistance or opposition to an argument, temptation, or adversary.

Example

"Her research methodology was rigorous enough to withstand intense scrutiny from the academic panel."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for withstand

• Nearby Words

withholding
within
without
withstand
witless
witlessly
witness

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'wiþstandan', formed from the prefix 'wiþ-' (meaning 'against' or 'in opposition to', as in 'withdraw' and 'withhold') and 'standan' (meaning 'to stand').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Withstand. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/withstand
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