HARD-BITTEN Synonyms: 83 Similar and Opposite Words

hard-bitten

adjective

ˈhärd-ˈbi-tᵊn

Definition of hard-bitten

as in sturdy

able to withstand hardship, strain, or exposure a hard-bitten Apache chief who could endure the scorching heat of the Arizona desert

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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 hard-bitten Alaska has devolved into a colony of big oil, and its politics have become so closed, hard-bitten, and strident. — Jeremy Eichler, BostonGlobe.com, 12 July 2015

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hard-bitten

Adjective

Natural and lab-grown diamonds are sturdy enough to hold up to everyday wear, with gems like sapphire and moissanite right behind them.

— Larissa Ratschkowski, Glamour, 30 Aug. 2026
These sturdy and reliable machines are great for both knocking out homework and streaming Netflix, with a big 24-inch FHD monitor that boasts good brightness and wide viewing angles.

— K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of sturdy

Adjective

Most mums of this type are suited for zones 5-9, but some exceptionally cold-tolerant varieties, such as Mammoth, are hardy down to zone 3.

— ABC News, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026
While hardier, wipeable furniture certainly has its time and place (say, messy craft sessions and sticky snack times), something a little more plush lends itself well to lounging around, reading breaks, and more relaxed forms of play.

— Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of hardy

Adjective

Davis delivered a strong preseason, but he is now likely headed to a redshirt rookie season unless injuries strike at tackle.

— Dan Duggan, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
There’s no denying that the fall 2026 runways made a strong case for color; even the street style scene is on board, slipping into colorful shoes and sporting handbags in a variety of vibrant shades—baby pink, chartreuse, and cobalt.

— Laura Jackson, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of strong

Adjective

The fire remains active in all directions — primarily within the Ventana Wilderness, which is also remote and rugged terrain.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026
Civilian infrastructure failed or disappeared, telecommunications broke down, and hundreds of thousands of people were stranded in what was already a relatively remote, rugged corner of the country.

— Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of rugged

Adjective

Space-grade electronics will cost more, and the ball’s shell—made from a material tough enough to roll over steel shards and withstand minus 184 °C temperatures—has never been evaluated in lunar extremes.

— IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 3 Sep. 2026
Democratic leaders face tough decisions on where to spend limited party resources to win the Senate majority.

— Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of tough

Adjective

The water alone will create steam in the microwave, softening any hardened debris.

— Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 29 Aug. 2026
Under the shadow of a red Force Recon Association hat and tinted glasses, Capers’ eyes wore a hardened look that made no effort to hide the darkness and despair that gripped him at that moment.

— Ethan Rocke, Charlotte Observer, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of hardened

Adjective

Paramasivam’s death has fueled a vigorous protest campaign by the Commercial and Industrial Workers Union, Asia Floor Wage Alliance, Global Labor Justice and other groups.

— Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026
Puppies should not engage in vigorous tug-of-war games because too much tugging can create jaw or bite problems.

— BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of vigorous

Adjective

Despite the tall central fin on the back deck and the stout roll bars above the seats, turning your head to look behind the Slingshot gives a clearer view than expected.

— William Roberson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
During August camp, Wilson has been more stout against the run than his 2025 Pro Football Focus grades would suggest.

— Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of stout

Browse Nearby Words

hardbacks

hard-bitten

hard-boiled

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“Hard-bitten.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hard-bitten. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of hard-bitten

adjective

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