Definition

Not able to survive in harsh conditions or climates.

Example

The nonhardy plants need to be brought indoors during the winter.

Conversation

I heard that some plants are nonhardy and can't survive the winter.

Yeah, I think those need special care to thrive.

I really want to avoid getting nonhardy plants for my garden.

That's smart! Sticking to hardy ones will save you a lot of trouble.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonhardy → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "hardy" (from Old French *hardi*, meaning bold or brave). The word "nonhardy" means not bold or not able to withstand difficult conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being combined with 'bold' or 'brave' ('hardy') to remember that 'nonhardy' describes something that is not able to endure tough situations.

Visually Confused Words