RESILIENT Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

resilient

adjective

ri-ˈzil-yənt

Definition of resilient

as in flexible

able to revert to original size and shape after being stretched, squeezed, or twisted after being dipped in liquid nitrogen, the rubber ball's normally resilient surface is as brittle as ceramic

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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 Parton costars with an up-and-coming Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, and the late Olympia Dukakis as one of a group of tight-knit, resilient women in the story based on Harling’s own sister. — Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Aug. 2026 Projects such as the Hedge Solar Farm battery storage pilot have demonstrated how emerging technologies can support a cleaner and more resilient energy system. — Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 27 Aug. 2026 Speaking from the central bank's annual symposium in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, that the Kansas City Fed hosts, Schmid said in a CNBC interview that inflation has proven resilient. — Jeff Cox, CNBC, 27 Aug. 2026 And if the Picklejus is as resilient as intended over extreme distances, runners wearing the model won’t need to turn to a tart swig or any other remedies. — Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resilient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for resilient

Adjective

Thickness, though, is not always an option—optical films have to stay clear, protective layers on aircraft have to stay light and flexible, and the barriers on outdoor electronics are thin by design.

— Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 31 Aug. 2026
Soft loafers are also resonating for their lightweight, flexible construction and polished look without sacrificing comfort.

— Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of flexible

Adjective

Its stretch material lends mobility and a fully relaxed fit, while the full-zipper closure helps block out the elements.

— Scott Kramer, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026
The non-stretch cotton fabric gives them a structured, straight drape, while the classic five-pocket design keeps the style simple enough to dress up or down.

— Jill Layton, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of stretch

Adjective

Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to hold in moisture, then put the cutting in a warm place with bright, indirect light.

— Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 30 Aug. 2026
YouTube and social media even walk viewers through DIY portable bidets built from plastic soda bottles.

— Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of plastic

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resilience

resilient

resist

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“Resilient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resilient. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of resilient

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