Adjective

(en adjective)

causing fear, dread, awe or admiration as a result of size, strength, or some other impressive quality; commanding respect; causing wonder or astonishment

difficult to defeat or overcome

* {{quote-news

, year=2012 , date=May 9 , author=John Percy , title=Birmingham City 2 Blackpool 2 (2-3 on agg): match report , work=the Telegraph citation , page= , passage=Holloway has unfinished business in the Premier League after relegation last year and he will make a swift return if he can overcome West Ham a week on Saturday. Sam Allardyce, the West Ham manager, will be acutely aware that when the stakes are high, Blackpool are simply formidable .}}

Adjective

(er)

Of firm build; stiff; stout; strong.

a sturdy oak tree

* Sir H. Wotton

He was not of any delicate contexture; his limbs rather sturdy than dainty.

Solid in structure or person.

It was a sturdy building, able to withstand strong winds and cold weather.

The dog was sturdy and could work all day without getting tired.

(obsolete) Foolishly obstinate or resolute; stubborn.

* Hudibras

This must be done, and I would fain see / Mortal so sturdy as to gainsay.

* Atterbury

A sturdy , hardened sinner shall advance to the utmost pitch of impiety with less reluctance than he took the first steps.

Resolute, in a good sense; or firm, unyielding quality.

a man of sturdy piety or patriotism