Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective resilient contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of resilient are elastic, flexible, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

When could elastic be used to replace resilient?

The words elastic and resilient can be used in similar contexts, but elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When is it sensible to use flexible instead of resilient?

While in some cases nearly identical to resilient, flexible applies to something which may or may not be resilient or elastic but which can be bent or folded without breaking.

flexible plastic tubing

When can springy be used instead of resilient?

The words springy and resilient are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, springy stresses both the ease with which something yields to pressure and the quickness of its return to original shape.

the cake is done when the top is springy

When would supple be a good substitute for resilient?

While the synonyms supple and resilient are close in meaning, supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of resilient Fifth is that Chicago is preternaturally resilient. Michael Peregrine, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025 The long-term mission is to create a more structured and resilient independent production sector in Europe, capable of competing on a global scale. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 13 Apr. 2025 This is what Denver hasn’t been far too often this season: steely, unrelenting, resilient, passionate. Tony Jones, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2025 Jackson County Public Health Director Bridgette Shaffer said public health infrastructure acts as the foundation of a healthy, resilient and thriving community. Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 5 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resilient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resilient
Adjective
  • The device uses microneedles and flexible wiring to capture neural signals just beneath the skin, enhancing signal quality while minimizing invasiveness.
    Charlie Fink, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Want a new career that’s higher-paying, more flexible or fulfilling?
    Kamaron McNair, CNBC, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But farther up Doheny, a black sea of stretch limos and town cars flowed in and out of another, bigger, more raucous post-Oscar blowout still in full swing.
    Scott Huver, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 Feb. 2025
  • Additionally, Korkmaz said stretch fabrics are making a strong comeback, reminiscent of the early 2000s, but reimagined with current technology.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 5 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Use a breathable paper or mesh bag, not plastic, to store your hyacinth bulbs.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Apr. 2025
  • In South Broward County, Gladys Vasquez of Miramar clutches a plastic grocery bag and says the contents continue to cost more, listing foods like cheese and yogurt.
    Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resilient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resilient. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on resilient

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