resilient

/rɪˈzɪljənt/
Add to My Dictionary
In My Dictionary
+1
Able to recover well after difficulty or return to shape after pressure.

Examples

  • She is resilient enough to learn from the setback and try again.
  • Is this flooring resilient enough for a busy kitchen?
  • A resilient support network helped him recover after the illness.
  • Choose a resilient material that will not stay dented.
  • Her shoes have a soft, resilient sole that absorbs impact.

Similar words

strong
adaptable
tough
elastic
pliable
supple
springy
resourceful
flexible
rubbery

Meanings

Recover after difficulty

adjective
well-being
neutral
Able to recover, adapt, or keep working after difficulty, damage, or major change.

Examples

  • The neighborhood proved resilient after the flood.
  • She is resilient enough to learn from the setback and try again.
  • Small farms must become more resilient to extreme weather.
  • Was the local economy resilient during the downturn?
  • The team did not feel resilient after losing several key players.
  • A resilient support network helped him recover after the illness.

Similar words

Return to shape

adjective
materials
technical
Able to bend, stretch, or be pressed and then quickly return to its earlier shape.

Examples

  • The resilient foam returned to its original shape.
  • Choose a resilient material that will not stay dented.
  • Is this flooring resilient enough for a busy kitchen?
  • The old rubber seal was no longer resilient.
  • Her shoes have a soft, resilient sole that absorbs impact.
  • Engineers tested how resilient the cable was under repeated strain.

Similar words

Etymology

From Latin resilire, meaning "to spring back" or "recoil". The physical sense appeared first, and the sense of recovering from hardship developed later.

FAQ

What does resilient mean?

Resilient means able to recover or adapt after difficulty, or able to return to shape after pressure.

What is a resilient person?

A resilient person can recover, adapt, and continue after hardship or a setback.

Can a material be resilient?

Yes. A resilient material bends, stretches, or compresses and then returns to its earlier shape.

What is the difference between resilient and strong?

Strong often means able to resist force, while resilient stresses recovery after force or difficulty.

What noun comes from resilient?

The related noun is resilience, the ability or quality of recovering or springing back.

Where does resilient come from?

Resilient comes from Latin resilire, meaning to spring back or recoil.

Comments & contributions

Know this word from another angle? Add a correction, a nuance, or a usage note. New posts go public after a quick review.
Posting as a guest · Sign in
No comments yet. Be the first to add one.
Look up word or phrase...