withstand
Pronunciation: verb. Synonyms: outface, defy, persevere
verb
Definition of withstand
resist or endure (something) successfully
Synonyms for withstand
- outface
- defy
- persevere
withstand in a Sentence
- The structure withstood the earthquake.
Why withstand Matters for GRE & SAT
"withstand" is a verb that means "resist or endure (something) successfully" closely related to words like "outface", "defy", "persevere". As a word starting with W, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.
On the GRE, understanding "withstand" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "withstand" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.
Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (verb). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "withstand" into long-term memory.
How to Remember withstand
One effective way to remember "withstand" (verb) is to group it with similar words you already know: "outface" and "defy" and "persevere". When you encounter "withstand" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "resist or endure (something) successfully".
Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "withstand" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.
More Vocabulary Words Starting with W
- wane — decrease in power, size, or intensity
- warrant — To justify or necessitate a course of action
- wary — Feeling or showing caution about possible dangers
- wary — exercising caution; careful
- wayward — obstinate, contrary and unpredictable
- weary — feeling tired or exhausted
- welfare — The health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group
- welfare — The health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group
- wheedle — attempt to persuade by flattery
- whereas — In contrast or comparison with the fact that