resilience

[ ri-zil-yuhns, -zil-ee-uhns ]

noun

1. the power or ability of a material to return to its original form, position, etc., after being bent, compressed, or stretched; elasticity.
2. the ability of a person to adjust to or recover readily from illness, adversity, major life changes, etc.; buoyancy.
3. the ability of a system or organization to respond to or recover readily from a crisis, disruptive process, etc.:

   Cities can build resilience to climate change by investing in infrastructure.

Other Words From

• non·re·sil·i·ence noun
• non·re·sil·i·en·cy noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of resilience¹

First recorded in 1620–30; resili(ent) + -ence

Example Sentences

Farrell's side summoned resilience and grit to seal a third successive win despite a sub-par performance which included 28 handling errors and 20 turnovers conceded.

From BBC

Their exhibition Hakuna Utopia features the works of seven artists exploring themes of apocalypse and resilience – some in quite abstract ways - as they respond to the daily challenges endured by Nairobi’s six million residents.

From BBC

Collaborate locally on global water challenges to help reduce conflict, empower civil societies, and build resilience.

From Science Daily

“This victory is a testament to the spirit and resilience of our community,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

“You’ve got to give credit to these students and their families for the resilience that they showed,” Clark said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• flexibility