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Resistant: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：able to withstand (resistant)
resistant
/rɪˈzɪstənt/
adj.
not easily damaged or affected by something, especially water, heat, or scratches.
able to withstand
➕
/ˈeɪbəl tuː wɪðˈstænd/
adj.
Describes an object or material's capability to endure exposure to certain elements without being harmed or altered.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'resistere' (re- 'back' + sistere 'to stand'), meaning to stand against.
💡 Mnemonic
Sounds like 'assist ant' – picture a strong ant assisting by resisting an invasion.
📖 Example
This backpack is made of water-resistant material, so my books stay dry even if I get caught in the rain.
The material of this backpack can repel water, protecting the contents from getting wet during rain.
🔗 Collocations
water-resistant – able to prevent water from penetrating
heat-resistant – capable of withstanding high temperatures
scratch-resistant – difficult to mark or damage with scratches
🔄 Synonyms
impervious (adj.) – not allowing fluid to pass through; incapable of being affected
durable (adj.) – able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage
tough (adj.) – strong enough to withstand adverse conditions
🚫 Antonyms
susceptible (adj.) – likely or liable to be influenced or harmed by a particular thing
vulnerable (adj.) – exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed
permeable (adj.) – allowing liquids or gases to pass through
🌱 Derivatives
resistance (n.) – the ability not to be affected by something; the act of opposing
resist (v.) – to withstand the action or effect of something; to try to prevent
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'resistere' (to stand back). Entered English via French. Originally used for physical opposition, now common in biology (antibiotic-resistant bacteria) and technology (water-resistant fabrics).
Meaning 2：not easily affected (resistant)
resistant
/rɪˈzɪstənt/
adj.
able to fight against or not be affected by something, like a disease, a change, or pressure.
not easily affected
➕
/nɒt ˈiːzəli əˈfɛktɪd/
adj.
Describes a living organism or system's ability to oppose, not succumb to, or remain unchanged by an external force or influence.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Because he exercises regularly, he's more resistant to common colds than most people in the office.
His consistent exercise routine has strengthened his immune system against typical cold viruses.
🔗 Collocations
disease-resistant – having a natural or enhanced immunity to certain illnesses
change-resistant – unwilling or slow to accept or adapt to new ideas or methods
pressure-resistant – capable of maintaining composure or function under stress
🔄 Synonyms
immune (adj.) – protected against a particular disease or influence
resilient (adj.) – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
insusceptible (adj.) – not likely to be affected or harmed by a particular thing
🚫 Antonyms
susceptible (adj.) – easily influenced or harmed by a particular thing
vulnerable (adj.) – in need of special care or protection because of being easily hurt
receptive (adj.) – willing to consider or accept new suggestions and ideas
🌱 Derivatives
resist (v.) – to refuse to accept or comply with something; to try to stop
resistance (n.) – the refusal to accept or comply with something; the ability to withstand
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