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 An undersized pass-catcher who can be a stout blocker with a bit of fine-tuning? Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 5 Apr. 2026 He's been deemed good to go and joins a stout rotation that this season will include Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo. CBS News, 1 Apr. 2026 Keuilian, a stout, bearded fifty-one-year-old, founded Fit Body Boot Camp, a global personal-training franchise, in 2010, and now lives in Chino Hills, California. Charles Bethea, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026 View gallery - 8 images In an age of sleek EV concepts that talk to the wind, the Chery V23 comes out as a stout reminder of bygone times. New Atlas, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stout
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stout
Adjective
  • The team-captain label and All-American honors help, but the real selling points are Schrauth’s sturdy frame, strong hands and a physical style that works in tight quarters.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Apr. 2026
  • In an untitled work from 1995, a cluster of sturdy wagons sits at the edge of a frozen lake, a site where her family of peripatetic horse traders often camped.
    Ben Davis, The New York Review of Books, 25 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • That rep, and dozens of others like it, formed the foundation for the Broncos’ interest in the stocky Coleman — their chosen running back among a long list available on Day 3 of the NFL Draft.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Platform legs give this modern hutch a lighter presence than some of the stocky silhouettes on this list while also providing possibilities for under storage.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Keegan Bradley captained last year's team at Bethpage Black, which had an embarrassing first two days but gave a valiant effort at an unprecedented comeback in Sunday singles.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2026
  • That Niall finds Ruben so alluring is natural to Gadd, who believes the notion of a valiant male figure has been bred into everyone via fables and fairy tales.
    Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The success of these titles owed much to Movistar Plus’ creation of talent relations with some of the most exciting creatives in Spain and a far more muscular investment in films and series which allowed for across-the-board production standards.
    John Hopewell, Variety, 24 Apr. 2026
  • All of this gets a steady electrical charge from Kormákur’s muscular direction, Sher’s sweeping camerawork and a no-nonsense, ominous score by Högni Egilsson.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 23 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • This is a solid and affordable Ethernet cable that is sufficient for most homes.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Combined with flexible plan options and solid customer support, Cinch is a reliable choice for anyone seeking affordable home warranties without sacrificing quality.
    Alora Bopray, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • In addition to being hardy and low-maintenance, spicebush is a beautiful addition to landscapes.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Lavender is a hardy perennial that thrives in full sun with minimal watering.
    Cori Sears, The Spruce, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Packed with multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, this milky lotion promises plump, glassy skin.
    Anita Bhagwandas, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Niacinamide helps brighten and even things out, while hyaluronic acid floods skin with hydration for a plump, fresh look.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Today, Mr Speaker, that same, unyielding resolve is needed for the defence of Ukraine and her most courageous people – it is needed in order to secure a truly just and lasting peace.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Claire has been an advocate for courageous stories, an expert at complicated logistics and a wonderful partner to teams across the entire news division.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 27 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Stout.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stout. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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