durable

Definition of durablenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective durable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of durable are lasting, permanent, and stable. While all these words mean "enduring for so long as to seem fixed or established," durable implies power to resist destructive agencies.

durable fabrics

When would lasting be a good substitute for durable?

In some situations, the words lasting and durable are roughly equivalent. However, lasting implies a capacity to continue indefinitely.

a book that left a lasting impression on me

When is permanent a more appropriate choice than durable?

While in some cases nearly identical to durable, permanent adds usually the implication of being designed or planned to stand or continue indefinitely.

permanent living arrangements

When could stable be used to replace durable?

The meanings of stable and durable largely overlap; however, stable implies lastingness because of resistance to being overturned or displaced.

a stable government

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 durable The durable answer is state money and progressive revenue, not local taxpayers. — Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026 Abundance of sodium Sodium technology offers a safe and durable base for use in residential energy storage. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 8 Oct. 2026 Yes, because it’s made of durable Gorilla Glass to prevent scuffs and scratches. — Kelsey Fogarty, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2026 The first half of that sentence proved more durable than the second. — Daniel Edward Rosen, Washington Post, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for durable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for durable
sturdy
Adjective
  • The shoes balanced on a slender yet sturdy stiletto heel measuring around three inches.
    — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The result has been sturdy economic growth, even as lower-income and even middle-income households have continued to struggle under stubborn inflation and declining earnings.
    — Rob Wile, NBC news, 15 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Durable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/durable. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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