Resilient

easyPositive tone

rih-ZIL-yunt

adjective

Definition

Able to recover quickly from difficulties; tough and flexible

Memory hook

RE-SILI-ent: Like SILICONE that bounces back to shape no matter how you squeeze it.

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Word roots

resilireto spring back(Latin)

Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.

Examples

Children are remarkably resilient and bounce back from setbacks.
The resilient material can withstand extreme temperatures.

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

Children are remarkably ______ and bounce back from setbacks.
Show answer

resilient

Synonyms

hardyadaptablerobusttenacious

Antonyms

fragilebrittlevulnerabledelicate

Categories

View all Strength words

GRE Tip

Resilient is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "hardy" or "adaptable" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "fragile".

Read: How to Memorize GRE Words That Actually Stick

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