Definition of robustnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word robust distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of robust are hale, healthy, sound, well, and wholesome. While all these words mean "enjoying or indicative of good health," robust implies the opposite of all that is delicate or sickly.

a lively, robust little boy

When would hale be a good substitute for robust?

Although the words hale and robust have much in common, hale applies particularly to robustness in old age.

still hale at the age of eighty

When can healthy be used instead of robust?

The meanings of healthy and robust largely overlap; however, healthy implies full strength and vigor as well as freedom from signs of disease.

a healthy family

When is sound a more appropriate choice than robust?

The words sound and robust are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sound emphasizes the absence of disease, weakness, or malfunction.

a sound heart

When is it sensible to use well instead of robust?

In some situations, the words well and robust are roughly equivalent. However, well implies merely freedom from disease or illness.

she has never been a well person

When might wholesome be a better fit than robust?

The words wholesome and robust can be used in similar contexts, but wholesome implies appearance and behavior indicating soundness and balance.

a face with a wholesome glow

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 robust The need for a robust Postal Service should not be partisan, Steiner added. Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 18 May 2026 The continent holds some of the world’s most diverse and underrepresented health data — critical for building robust global health systems — yet much of the infrastructure to analyze, govern, and benefit from that data remains external. Francisca Mutapi, semafor.com, 18 May 2026 This despite the contention, from the dinner’s defenders, that the event is both a fundraiser for journalism scholarships and a robust celebration of the First Amendment. ABC News, 18 May 2026 The fourth principle is robust enforcement. Suvrat Dhanorkar, The Conversation, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for robust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for robust
Adjective
  • These investments strengthen families, improve long-term well-being, and help create healthier, more resilient communities for generations to come.
    Maria Bledsoe, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 May 2026
  • Other than the hamstring of OG Anunoby, the Knicks are healthy.
    Alex Kirshner, New York Times, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • Little Caesars Arena was as energetic as its been all season, and Detroit didn’t deliver, sending Pistons fans for an early exit.
    Jason Lloyd, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • For a night out, head to local landmark Pam Pam, a fish-out-of-water Brazilian bar with tiki drinks, dance shows, live music, and an energetic atmosphere.
    Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • To survive these transformations, rich states have resorted among other things to the ever greater exploitation, not only of poor states, but also of the human and ecological capital housed within them.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 18 May 2026
  • Edmond Safra was that rich banker.
    Erin Moriarty, CBS News, 17 May 2026
Adjective
  • The hovercraft tragedy underscores the rapidly changing weather conditions, dangerous waves and strong winds associated with Lake Baikal, reports indicated.
    Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 20 May 2026
  • Beyond keeping bugs away from your guests and food, the zapper also cuts down on the need for bug sprays, which can leave behind strong smells or residue.
    Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 20 May 2026
Adjective
  • Reintroduced as Aqua Lares in late 2025, the 254-footer is comfortable in the harshest of environments, with a sturdy ice-class hull that can power through practically anything.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 15 May 2026
  • Optimize the wall space by placing belts and bags on sturdy hooks.
    Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 15 May 2026
Adjective
  • Certainly, the images themselves are striking and dramatic, defined by strong shadows and a dynamic sensibility, with bodies constantly in motion.
    Amy Reyes, Miami Herald, 14 May 2026
  • Many stayed, putting down roots that grew into multigenerational farming families who continue to shape the region’s dynamic food scene.
    Vivian Chung, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • Still, this is one of the NFL’s most potent and prominent rivalries.
    Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 16 May 2026
  • Nowhere is that more apparent than with Septimus, whose story comes to us in potent fits and starts.
    Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • With flat soles, light textures, and a smooth fit, preppy loafers are a solid option for long days on your feet, from theme park trips to office days.
    Aaron Royce, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026
  • He was banged up by playoff time but posted 23 goals last season and was a solid bottom-six forward.
    Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 19 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Robust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/robust. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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