hardy
/ˈhɑːdi
/adjective (hardier, hardiest)
1Capable of enduring difficult conditions; robust: a hardy breed of cattle...
- The traditional cattle are hardy breeds which can cope with the tough upland climate.
- The infrastructure to combat hardy weather conditions was carefully put into force here.
- The mountainous region around the small Corsican town of Bastilyica breeds a hardy, proud people.
Synonyms
robust, healthy, fit, strong, sturdy, tough, rugged, hearty, lusty, vigorous, hale and hearty, fit as a fiddle, fighting fit, in fine fettle, in good health, in good condition;
British in rude health
dated stalwart
1.1(Of a plant) able to survive outside during winter: a favourite flowering shrub for early spring, vigorous and hardy...
- The timing of growth cessation is an important adaptation to ensure that the tree is hardy for winter.
- This hardy shrub grows well in shade as well as sun and tolerates almost every soil type.
- Although the tubers themselves are winter hardy, a mulch layer is highly recommended.
Derivatives
hardily
/ adverb ...- The nuthatch survived unscathed and was witnessed yesterday and today feeding hardily.
- A few brave swimmers are wading hardily into the Pacific Ocean.
- Upon reaching him, Brad clapped him on the shoulder hardily.
Origin
Middle English (in the sense 'bold, daring'): from Old French hardi, past participle of hardir 'become bold', of Germanic origin; related to hard.