C2to bear or not be changed by something, or to oppose a person or thing successfully: a bridge designed to withstand earthquakesOur toys are designed to withstand the rough treatment of the average five-year-old.The aircraft base is protected with specially designed shelters which are built to withstand ground and air attacks.She is an artist whose work will undoubtedly withstand the test of time(= it will still be popular in the future).Tolerating and enduringCoping and not copingDealing with things or people