adjective

resilient

rih-ZIL-yunt/rɪˈzɪliənt/

Able to return to form after strain.

The resilient runner gets back up after a minor fall.

Runner getting up with determination after a minor fall.

Etymology

reLatinback

+siliLatinto jump or leap

+entLatinpresent participle ending

Literally “leaping back,” resilient describes the rebound of something returning to its former position or shape. Applied to people, that physical image becomes bouncing back from difficulties.

In context

TED7:14

If we work to cultivate resilience in our communities, we can help to limit the human suffering that will come as the world warms. To be more resilient and to recover more quickly from the effects of climate change

How to Be an “Apocalyptic Optimist” | Dana R. Fisher | TED

More examples

These resilient branches bend under snow without staying bent.
The rubber seal remains resilient after repeated compression.
Our resilient team recovers quickly from each setback.

Forms

resilient · more resilient · most resilient

resilience noun — Ability to recover after strain or hardship.

Similar words

elastic: Emphasizes stretching and returning to the original size or shape.
springy: Emphasizes a noticeable bounce when pressure is released.