adj. 1. a. Capable of withstanding wear and tear or decay: a durable fabric. b. Made to withstand repeated use over a relatively long period, usually several years or more: durable goods such as washing machines and dryers. 2. Able to perform or compete over a long period, as by avoiding or overcoming injuries: a durable fullback. 3. Lasting; stable: a durable friendship. n. A good or product made to withstand repeated use over a relatively long period, usually several years or more: tracked the orders for automobiles and other durables. [Middle English, from Old French, from Latin dūrābilis, from dūrāre, to last; see deuə- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] du′ra·bili·ty, dura·ble·ness n. dura·bly adv. |
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