withstand

[ with-stand, with- ]

verb (used with object)

, with·stood, with·stand·ing.

1. to stand or hold out against; resist or oppose, especially successfully: to withstand the invaders;

   to withstand rust;

   to withstand the invaders;

   to withstand temptation.

   Synonyms: face, confront

verb (used without object)

, with·stood, with·stand·ing.

1. to stand in opposition; resist.

withstand

/ wɪðˈstænd /

verb

1. tr to stand up to forcefully; resist
2. intr to remain firm in endurance or opposition

Derived Forms

• withˈstander, noun

Other Words From

• with·stander noun
• with·standing·ness noun
• unwith·standing adjective
• unwith·stood adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of withstand¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English withstanden, Old English withstandan ( with-, stand ); cognate with Old Norse vithstanda; akin to German widerstehen

Synonym Study

See oppose.

Example Sentences

Antitrust experts said it depends on what remedies the judge in the case decides on and whether they withstand scrutiny by an appeals court.

From Los Angeles Times

More immediately, the findings will inform the Salk Harnessing Plants Initiative's mission to create optimized crops that simultaneously fight and withstand the threat of climate change.

From Science Daily

Probiotics -- bacteria and yeast -- can withstand stomach acid and digesting enzymes, offering a potentially promising strategy for safely transporting protein-based drugs that otherwise would get chewed up.

From Science Daily

The Central Valley, already burdened with some of the worst air quality in the nation, cannot withstand additional harm.

From Los Angeles Times

This process enhances functional and evolutionary diversity, both crucial for building resilient ecosystems capable of withstanding climate change.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• combat
• cope
• defy
• hold off
• repel
• resist
• ride out
• suffer
• thwart
• tolerate
• weather