Resistant
/rɪˈzɪstənt/
Definitions
2 meaningsShowing opposition or unwillingness to accept something.
/rɪˈzɪstənt/
Unwilling to accept or comply with something.
The patient's cancer was resistant to chemotherapy.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: if you don't want to do something, or something doesn't work on you (like medicine on a germ), you're being resistant. Like when you refuse to eat your vegetables, you're resistant!
👶 For kids: When something doesn't want to change or be affected by something else. Like, if you are resistant to eating vegetables!
More Examples
She was resistant to change and preferred the old system.
Many consumers are resistant to the high prices.
How It's Used
"The protestors were resistant to the new government's policies."
"The bacteria had become resistant to antibiotics."
Able to withstand the effects of something; not harmed or affected by something.
/rɪˈzɪstənt/
Having the ability to withstand the action or effect of something.
The paint is weather-resistant, so it won't fade in the sun.
💡 Simply: It's like wearing a raincoat – you're resistant to getting wet! If something is resistant, it can handle some kind of force or problem.
👶 For kids: When something can't be broken or damaged easily. Like a strong wall that won't fall down!
More Examples
This material is heat-resistant and won't melt easily.
Wear gloves, because they are chemical resistant.
How It's Used
"This fabric is water-resistant."
"The phone is designed with a scratch-resistant screen."
From Latin *resistere* ('to stand against, withstand'), from *re-* ('back') + *sistere* ('to stand').
Historically, the word 'resistant' has been used in both military and medical contexts to describe those opposing an invading force or a specific treatment.
Memory tip
Imagine a sturdy shield that resists arrows.
Word Origin
"to stand against"