Resistance

Definition

Resistance generally refers to the act of opposing or fighting against something. It also has specific definitions in various fields such as physics, where it refers to the hindrance to the flow of electric current, and biology, where it refers to the ability of organisms to withstand harmful agents or conditions.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈzɪstəns/
• Respelling: ri-ZIST-əns (with "ri" as in "rid," "ZIST" as in "exist," and "əns" as a neutral ending like in "pens")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈzɪstəns/
• Respelling: ri-ZIST-əns (similar to American English, with "ri" as in "rid," "ZIST" as in "exist," and "əns" as in "pens")

In both dialects, "resistance" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "ZIST." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, effectively capturing the word's structure and emphasis.

Etymology

The term "resistance" stems from the Old French word "resistance," which is derived from the Latin word "resistentia" from the verb "resistere" meaning to withstand, oppose. The composition of "re-" denotes a reverse or against, and "sistere" which means to take a stand.

Derivatives

• Resistant
• Resistive
• Resistibility
• Resistless
• Resistlessly

Synonyms

• Opposition
• Defiance
• Contention

Antonyms

• Submission
• Compliance
• Acquiescence

Usage

The term "resistance" has broad applications across various domains including political, social, scientific, and medical fields. It is commonly employed to signify opposition, defiance or the act of withstanding some force or effect.

Related Terms

• Resist
• Resistor
• Antibiotic resistance

Detailed Definition

Noun

• General Usage: The act of opposing or taking a stand against an action, situation, or entity.‍
• Example: The resistance against the unjust laws grew among the citizens.

• Political: An organized effort or movement to challenge and combat perceived oppression or occupation.‍
• Example: The French resistance played a crucial role during World War II.

• Physics: The degree to which a substance or device opposes the passage of an electric current, causing energy dissipation. Ohm’s Law symbolizes it by the letter R.‍
• Example: Copper has low electrical resistance, making it a good conductor of electricity.

• Biology/Medicine: The ability of an organism or strain of organism to withstand or repel the attack of pathogenic agents (such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi), often due to genetic mutations.‍
• Example: Antibiotic resistance is a significant concern in modern medicine.

• Psychological: An unconscious defense mechanism proposed by Anna Freud involving opposition to the consciousness of emotional or traumatic experiences.‍
• Example: The patient showed resistance when asked to discuss the traumatic event.