Definition of stoutnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word stout different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of stout are stalwart, strong, sturdy, tenacious, and tough. While all these words mean "showing power to resist or to endure," stout suggests an ability to endure stress, pain, or hard use without giving way.

stout hiking boots

When can stalwart be used instead of stout?

While the synonyms stalwart and stout are close in meaning, stalwart suggests an unshakable dependability.

stalwart environmentalists

Where would strong be a reasonable alternative to stout?

In some situations, the words strong and stout are roughly equivalent. However, strong may imply power derived from muscular vigor, large size, structural soundness, intellectual or spiritual resources.

strong arms
the defense has a strong case

When would sturdy be a good substitute for stout?

The words sturdy and stout can be used in similar contexts, but sturdy implies strength derived from vigorous growth, determination of spirit, solidity of construction.

a sturdy table
people of sturdy independence

When might tenacious be a better fit than stout?

The words tenacious and stout are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, tenacious suggests strength in seizing, retaining, clinging to, or holding together.

tenacious farmers clinging to an age-old way of life

When is tough a more appropriate choice than stout?

The meanings of tough and stout largely overlap; however, tough implies great firmness and resiliency.

a tough political opponent

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of stout It’s been a little more than a week since a stout, scrappy raccoon captured the internet's heart, and Jimothy mania is showing no signs of slowing down. Drew Pittock, USA Today, 25 July 2026 De la Fuente wisely shifted to a more tiki-taka-esque focus with a stout defense moving forward and hoped that his wingers would get healthy as the tournament progressed. Patrick Sung Cuadrado, CNN Money, 20 July 2026 In this tournament, Morocco has tried to develop from the 2022 team, which relied on stout defense, into one that can outplay more teams. Dan Santaromita, New York Times, 9 July 2026 Coupled with its silicone/PU hydrophobic finish and 20D ripstop grid, the fabric promises 4,900-mm waterproofing, stout UV resistance and rugged durability. New Atlas, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stout
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stout
Adjective
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Stidham with a sturdy opening act There may not have been another Broncos player who was more eager to get on the field Friday night than Stidham.
    Nick Kosmider, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Unlike paper wasps, yellow jackets have a shorter, stockier body with a less pronounced narrow waist.
    Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 5 Aug. 2026
  • His 6-foot, 205-pound stocky frame could give him a physicality edge, and his receiving ability could add an intrigue.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • What would be the worst moment in a mere mortal’s career, Hoecht turned into a valiant scene.
    Tim Graham, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Despite Aldis's valiant comeback, including a superplex and a King's Lynn Cloverleaf that nearly secured the win, Gunther ultimately prevailed.
    Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Breed standards describe these substantial cats as having a muscular, rectangular body with a broad chest, large paws and a long, flowing tail.
    Pat Mueller, USA Today, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Design-wise, the EX2S features a compact streetfighter stance with an aggressive headlight housing, a muscular central body, and exposed structural elements.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 12 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • There's some solid Santa Maria-style BBQ tri-tip, as well as Tex Mex classics like nachos and quesadillas alongside a variety of burgers and fries.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Ryan Christie, Lewis Cook and Alex Toth are solid rotation options in midfield.
    Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Add a can of white beans for heft and serve with peppery greens like arugula or a hardy chicory like radicchio.
    Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Aug. 2026
  • The Cyclospora parasite is particularly hardy, so routine rinsing or washing of produce is unlikely to kill it.
    Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 11 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • While some cleansers can leave your skin feeling tight or dry, this tonic helps my complexion feel soft, plump, and refreshed—the perfect hydrated canvas for the rest of my morning skin-care routine.
    Sara Tan, Allure, 11 Aug. 2026
  • An InStyle editor’s mom swears by the Mario Badescu Super Collagen Mask for plump, firm, even skin.
    Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • And what was the courageous act of the Indiana Fever guard, who turns 30 this month?
    Kase Wickman, Vanity Fair, 12 Aug. 2026
  • The sun in Leo is expressive, vivacious and deeply courageous.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 6 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Stout.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stout. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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