Withstand

/wɪðˈstænd/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to remain undamaged or unaffected by; resist.
The building was designed to withstand high winds and earthquakes.
to hold out against; oppose or resist.
She was able to withstand the pressure of the competitive environment.
to endure or tolerate.
He could not withstand the pain of losing his best friend.
to stand up to.
The athlete was determined to withstand the challenges of the rigorous training program.

Etymology

The word withstand comes from Middle English, from Old English 'withstandan', meaning 'to stand against'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

withstand the test of time:
to remain effective or important over a long period.
withstand pressure:
to resist stress or demand.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

hang tough
You just have to hang tough through the tough times.