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Withstanding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ช
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withstanding

[wษชรฐหˆstรฆndษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

resisting force

To withstand means to resist or hold out against something, often in the context of physical forces or pressures. It implies durability and strength in facing challenges, whether they are external forces or internal pressures.

Synonyms

endure, resist, survive, withhold.

Examples of usage

  • The building was designed to withstand earthquakes.
  • He was able to withstand the criticism and keep going.
  • She had to withstand heavy rain during her hike.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research indicates that resilience helps individuals withstand stress and adversity more effectively.
  • People who practice mindfulness may develop greater ability to withstand emotional challenges.

Environmental Science

  • Plants in harsh climates have adaptations that help them withstand extreme temperatures or drought.
  • Coral species can withstand temperature variations, but climate change is pushing many to their limits.

Architecture

  • Buildings designed to withstand earthquakes often use flexible materials to absorb shocks.
  • The concept of 'withstanding' is crucial in engineering, ensuring structures can handle heavy loads safely.

Literature

  • In many literary works, characters who withstand challenging situations often symbolize strength and courage.
  • Classic tales frequently explore themes of personal growth through the act of withstanding trials.

Origin of 'withstanding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has origins in Old English, from 'withstandan', which means 'to stand against'.
  • It combines 'with' (against) and 'stand' (to remain upright), literally implying resisting pressure.

The word 'withstand' originates from the Old English term 'wiรพstandan', which is comprised of 'wiรพ', meaning 'against', and 'standan', meaning 'to stand'. Its usage dates back to the early 15th century and has evolved to denote the action of enduring or resisting something with determination. The prefix 'with-' emphasizes the idea of being in opposition to something, while 'stand' suggests a physical or figurative stance against it. 'Withstand' has been used in various contexts, from describing physical structures resisting environmental forces to metaphorically addressing personal resilience against life's challenges.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,129, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.