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DictionarywithstandResist successfully
verb

withstand

with-STAND/wɪðˈstænd/

To endure or resist without giving way.

The reinforced door withstands the water's pressure as the worker braces it.

A worker braces a reinforced door with both feet planted while a heavy wave of water presses against it and the room behind remains dry.
Etymology
withOld Englishagainst
+standOld Englishto stand

“Against” and “stand” give the image of holding one's ground under opposition. That same image covers enduring pressure or difficulty without giving way.

In context

Rodney Brooks5:14
It can withstand a 400G shock.
Rodney Brooks: How robots will invade our lives
Veritasium6:23
This fuel can withstand a lot of compression.
The Man Who Accidentally Killed The Most People In History

More examples

  • The bridge withstood the force of the flood.
  • This fabric can withstand repeated washing.
  • Her argument withstands even the toughest criticism.

Forms

withstand · withstands · withstood · withstanding

Similar words

resist
Emphasizes opposing a force, without necessarily succeeding against it.
endure
Emphasizes bearing hardship over time rather than resisting force.