Meaning & Definition of word "Resist"

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    Resist

    /rɪˈzɪst/

    verb:

    • 1. To withstand the action or effect of something.
      • Example: She tried to resist the temptation to eat the chocolate cake.
    • 2. To fight against or oppose something.
      • Example: The villagers decided to resist the construction of the new highway.
    • 3. To refrain from doing or indulging in something.
      • Example: He found it hard to resist the urge to check his phone every few minutes.
    • 4. To endure or withstand something harmful.
      • Example: This fabric can resist wear and tear better than its competitors.

    Etymology

    Late Middle English: from Latin 'resistere', from 're-' + 'sistere' 'to stand'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    resist temptation:

    To avoid indulging in something that one desires.

    resist the urge:

    To refrain from doing something one feels strongly about.

    resist change:

    To oppose alterations to a situation or status.

    Related Words

    resistance:

    The refusal to accept or comply with something.

    resistant:

    Having the ability to withstand something.

    Slang Meanings of resist

    Meaning: To hold off

    Example Sentence: I had to hold off on going out until I finished my work.

    Meaning: Fight back

    Example Sentence: When they tried to boss me around, I decided to fight back.