durable
DYOOR-uh-bul
/ˈdjʊərəbl/
Able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage; hard-wearing.
Primarily used for physical objects and materials. It suggests quality and value for money.
The story behind the word. Like 'endure,' this word comes from the Latin 'durus,' meaning hard. It entered English via Old French in the late 14th century. It has always carried the dual meaning of being physically tough and being able to exist for a long time.
Word relationships
- sturdy: Sturdy implies strength and solid construction; durable implies the ability to last over time.
- robust: Robust implies health and vigor as well as strength.
- flimsy: Flimsy describes something weak and easily broken.
- perishable: Perishable describes something that decays quickly, like food.
Commonly confused with
- resilient: Durable means it resists damage; resilient means it recovers from damage.
Word family
- durability (noun): The ability to withstand wear or damage.
- duration (noun): The time during which something continues.
Collocations
- durable goods
- durable material
- durable peace
- highly durable
Example sentences
- "These hiking boots are made from durable leather designed to last for hundreds of miles on rough terrain." Consumer Goods
- "Consumer durables, such as washing machines and cars, are expected to last for several years." Economics
Memory hook
Think of a 'durable' battery that lasts 'during' the whole trip. Durable = Hard to break.
When not to use
Don't use it for people's feelings or abstract concepts like 'durable love' (use 'abiding' or 'enduring' instead).
Fun facts
- In economics, 'durable goods' are defined as products that do not wear out quickly, typically lasting at least three years.
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