What does resistant mean?
Resistant describes something that can withstand an effect or that actively opposes interference or change. It is commonly used in technical and general contexts: a material may be resistant to heat, chemicals, or wear, while a plant or disease-resistant organism resists infection. People can also be described as resistant when they refuse to be controlled, persuaded, or changed. The word often conveys durability, independence, or determined opposition, although its tone can be negative when it describes stubborn or uncooperative behaviour. It is frequently followed by “to,” as in “resistant to pressure,” but phrases such as “disease-resistant” use it before the thing being resisted.
Able to withstand or resist an effect, or determined to oppose or refuse to accept control or change.
"The bridge is designed to be resistant to strong winds."
Commonly used with “to” before a noun naming an influence, effect, or source of opposition.
A person who resists or refuses to be controlled or persuaded.
"The young resistants refused to abandon the protest."
This noun form is less common than the adjective and is often used in political or social contexts.
The plural form is used for people who resist or oppose something, especially in political or social contexts.
"The resistants continued their campaign despite the arrests."
From antibiotics to skyscrapers, the most useful materials are often the ones that refuse to be worn down.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does resistant come from?
The word derives through French from the Latin present participle resistens, formed from resistere, meaning “to stand back” or “to resist.” Its ultimate roots combine the Latin prefix re-, meaning “back,” with sistere, “to stand.” The related English words resist, resistance, and resistive developed from the same Latin foundation.
Related word forms
How resistant is actually used
The expression “resistant to” is especially common with substances, organisms, forces, and harmful influences. When describing a person's opposition, “resistant” often suggests active resistance rather than a simple lack of willingness.
Easily confused with resistant
Resistant describes an inherent ability or tendency to withstand or oppose something, whereas resisting refers to the act of opposing or refusing to yield.
A reluctant person is unwilling to do something, while a resistant person actively opposes or refuses to be affected by something.