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Definitions

resistance

[ri-zis-tuhns] / rɪˈzɪs təns /
NOUN
fighting, opposition
Synonyms
STRONGEST
battle defiance fight intransigence protection refusal struggle support
STRONG
blocking check combat contention counteraction cover detention friction hindrance holding impedance impediment obstruction rebuff retardation safeguard screen shield stand watch
WEAK
halting impeding parrying protecting striking back warding off withstanding
Antonyms
STRONG
aid assistance help liberation peace promotion
WEAK
compliance conforming cooperation submission

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That resistance complicates contemporary readings of his life.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Meghan Blanco, a former federal prosecutor and veteran defense attorney, suggested Gee’s inaction with Essayli might be a clever act of resistance.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Any move to proceed could face political resistance given competing budget priorities and the site's current status as a major tourism and historical landmark.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

There is still resistance in the 6,615-6,670 area, including the declining 20-day moving average, the 200-day moving average, and resistance from earlier in March.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

To Cartesians, Newton’s theory of gravity made no sense; but in England, where Cartesianism had never been adopted without reservations, and where arguments from design were widely accepted, resistance to the theory was much weaker.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.