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resistance

noun

/rɪˈzɪst(ə)ns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of resistance

The act of opposing or refusing to comply with a particular demand, rule, or authority.
"The soldiers faced fierce resistance from the enemy forces."

Detailed meaning of resistance

This can manifest in various forms such as passive resistance, which is the refusal to comply with a demand or rule without using physical force, or active resistance, which involves the use of physical force or violence. In political contexts, resistance can refer to efforts to oppose oppressive government policies or societal norms. In personal contexts, resistance can refer to an individual's refusal to comply with a particular demand or rule that they believe to be unjust or unfair. Overall, resistance in this context is about standing up against something that is perceived as unjust or illegitimate and refusing to comply with it.

Resistance can also refer to the opposition to an applied force. This can refer to various forms of resistance, such as electrical resistance, thermal resistance, and mechanical resistance. In physics, resistance is the measure of how difficult it is for an electrical current to flow through a material, and is usually measured in units of ohms. In biology, resistance can refer to the ability of a microorganism to resist the effects of antibiotics or other drugs. In politics and social movements, resistance can refer to efforts to oppose or challenge existing power structures or policies. Overall, resistance can manifest in many different forms and can refer to various types of opposition or pushback.

Example sentences containing resistance

1. The resistance of the material to heat is impressive.
2. She joined the resistance movement to fight against the dictatorship.
3. The doctor prescribed antibiotics to help overcome the bacteria's resistance to the medication.
4. The electrical resistance of the wire affects its ability to conduct electricity.
5. The resistor in the circuit helped to control the amount of resistance.
6. The resistance training helped to build muscle and increase strength.

History and etymology of resistance

The noun 'resistance' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'resistentia,' which is formed from 'resistere,' a verb that combines 're,' meaning 'back' or 'against,' and 'sistere,' meaning 'to stand.' Thus, the etymology of 'resistance' conveys the idea of standing against or opposing something. In its contemporary sense, 'resistance' refers to the act of opposing or refusing to comply with a particular demand, rule, or authority. This term's etymology underscores the concept of standing one's ground and steadfastly opposing external pressures or commands, highlighting the determined and often principled nature of resistance.

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Further usage examples of resistance

1. The artist encountered resistance from the art gallery when trying to display her controversial piece.
2. The resistor's resistance value was crucial in determining the correct voltage for the circuit.
3. The athlete's resistance to fatigue allowed him to push himself to his limits.
4. The resistance in the bike's pedals made it difficult to ride up the hill.
5. The resistance of the brakes prevented the car from skidding on the wet road.
6. The resistance against unjust laws grew stronger each day.
7. Their unwavering resistance inspired others to join the cause.
8. The resistance movement aimed to topple the oppressive regime.
9. In the face of adversity, she showed remarkable resistance.
10. Citizens staged a protest to voice their resistance.
11. The resistance to change hindered progress in the organization.
12. The resistance fighters bravely confronted the invading army.
13. His resistance to compromise often led to conflicts.
14. Their determination and resistance to fear were admirable.
15. The resistance to censorship was a battle for free speech.
16. The resistance leader emerged as a symbol of hope.
17. The government tried to suppress the resistance movement.
18. She faced relentless resistance from her opponents.
19. The resistance to new technologies slowed innovation.
20. The resistance to vaccination hindered public health efforts.
21. The teacher encouraged critical thinking and resistance to conformity.
22. The resistance to environmental reforms threatened the planet.
23. He showed great resistance in standing up to bullying.
24. The ongoing resistance highlighted the need for change.
25. The resistance to authority was a defining characteristic of the era.