resilience

American  

[ri-zil-yuhns, -zil-ee-uhns] / rɪˈzɪl yəns, -ˈzɪl i əns /

Also resiliency

noun

1. the power or ability of a material to return to its original form, position, etc., after being bent, compressed, or stretched; elasticity.

2. the ability of a person to adjust to or recover readily from illness, adversity, major life changes, etc.; buoyancy.

3. the ability of a system or organization to respond to or recover readily from a crisis, disruptive process, etc..

   Cities can build resilience to climate change by investing in infrastructure.

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Other Word Forms

• nonresilience noun
• nonresiliency noun

Etymology

Origin of resilience

First recorded in 1620–30; resili(ent) + -ence

Example Sentences

That kind of education cultivates adaptability, resilience and judgment, the traits employers say they value most.

From The Wall Street Journal

Asked about the UK's domestic preparedness and national resilience in the event of a conflict, Sir Richard said the UK was not doing "as well as I would want us".

From BBC

"This is entirely unacceptable. This afternoon, I chaired a further meeting with the water companies and local resilience forums to restore supplies as quickly as possible, prioritising vulnerable customers and essential public services."

From BBC

"I fought for everything. That determination and resilience is who I am."

From Barron's

The eurozone’s unemployment rate in November unexpectedly declined for the first time in seven months, showing the labor market’s resilience despite last year’s uncertain economic environment.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• flexibility