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 next

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 Pickens, an attorney, has said her priorities include creating a strong and resilient economy, which includes Medicaid expansion and investments in public schools. —

Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 20 May 2026 This strategy provided members of the European Union objectives in order to become more resilient to climate change. —

Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 May 2026 That means Hongkong Land is doubling down on the segment of the market that looks resilient in both Hong Kong and the region’s other financial hubs. —

Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 19 May 2026 Consumer spending was surprisingly resilient through 2025 and has been into 2026 so far even as inflation leaps. —

David Moin, Footwear News, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for resilient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for resilient

Adjective

Suburban growth accelerated during COVID, McShane said, especially with flexible working options.

— John Marks, Charlotte Observer, 14 May 2026
Company leaders said the expansion reflects growing demand for smaller, more flexible grocery footprints in urban areas.

— Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 14 May 2026

Definition of flexible

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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 22 May. 2026.

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Synonyms of resilient

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