Sturdy

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈstɜː.dɪ/
• Rhymes: -ɜː(r)di

Origin

Circa 1300, in sense “unruly, reckless, violent”, from Old French estourdi, form of estourdir, originally “to daze, to make tipsy (almost drunk)” (Modern French étourdir ("to daze, to make tipsy")), from Vulgar Latin *exturdire. Latin etymology is unclear – presumably it is ex- + turdus ("thrush (bird)"), but which this should mean “daze” is unclear.

Online Etymology Dictionary

A speculative theory is that thrushes eat leftover winery grapes and thus became drunk, but this meets with objections.

OED

Disease in cows and sheep is by extension of sense of “daze”, while sense of “strongly built” is of late 14th century,

and relationship to earlier sense is less clear, perhaps from sense of a firm strike (causing a daze) or a strong, violent person.

Full definition of sturdy

Adjective

1. Of firm build; stiff; stout; strong.a sturdy oak tree
• Sir H. WottonHe was not of any delicate contexture; his limbs rather sturdy than dainty.
2. 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.
3. (obsolete) Foolishly obstinate or resolute; stubborn.
• HudibrasThis must be done, and I would fain see
  Mortal so sturdy as to gainsay.
• AtterburyA sturdy, hardened sinner shall advance to the utmost pitch of impiety with less reluctance than he took the first steps.
4. Resolute, in a good sense; or firm, unyielding quality.a man of sturdy piety or patriotism

Noun

1. A disease in sheep and cattle, marked by great nervousness, or by dullness and stupor.