withstand

/wɪðˈstænd/

Group 33Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(verb)
To remain undamaged or unaffected by; to resist
GRE

Example in Context

The structure was engineered to withstand seismic forces that far exceeded the most severe earthquake recorded in the region's history.

Synonyms

endureresistsurvive

Etymology

To remain against forces, showing resilience.

  • with- (Old English) — against
  • stand (Old English) — to remain

Memory Aid

💪Sounds like “with stand

Imagine a superhero saying, 'I WILL WITHSTAND anything — even my mother-in-law’s cooking!'

Visual Association

🛡️A mighty fortress standing strong against a raging storm, unyielding and firm.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “withstand” mean on the GRE?

withstand (verb) means “To remain undamaged or unaffected by; to resist”. The structure was engineered to withstand seismic forces that far exceeded the most severe earthquake recorded in the region's history.

How to remember “withstand” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “withstand” sounds like “with stand”. Imagine a superhero saying, 'I WILL WITHSTAND anything — even my mother-in-law’s cooking!'

What are synonyms for “withstand”?

Common synonyms: endure, resist, survive.