Word
durable
US/ˈdʊɹəbəɫ/
UK/djˈɔːɹəbəl/
Definitions
01long-lasting
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. strong and able to last a long time without breaking or wearing out.
adj. able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage; enduring and resistant to decay.
“These hiking boots are made of durable leather that can handle rocky paths.”
“The manufacturer selected a durable synthetic polymer for the casing to ensure the device could survive repeated drops in industrial environments.”
Usage
Often used to describe fabrics, materials, or physical objects.
Antonyms
02long-term goods
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Economics Technical
n. a product that you can use for a long time, like a washing machine or a car.
n. a manufactured good that yields utility over a long period, typically defined as three years or more.
“Families often wait for a sale before buying expensive durables like refrigerators.”
“Economists track the orders for consumer durables as a primary indicator of long-term confidence in the manufacturing sector.”
Usage
Usually used in the plural form 'durables' or as part of the phrase 'durable goods'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“This shifts the balance toward stronger and more durable bone.” “The instruction is older than any decade and more durable than any food product.” Etymology
From Middle English durable, from Old French durable, from Latin dūrābilis (“lasting, permanent”), from dūrō (“harden, make hard”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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