sinewy

Sinewy is an adjective used to describe a person, animal, or thing that displays a lean, muscular form with taut, well-developed tendons. In people, it implies strength, endurance, and agility rather than bulk alone; in descriptions of animals or labor-intensive contexts, it signals rugged resilience and readiness for strenuous activity. The term can also extend to nonhuman things that feel similarly tough and fibrous, such as textiles or fibers that are strong and elastic.

Etymology and nuance: Sinew refers to the connective tissue that links muscle to bone, and the adjective evokes the texture and resilience associated with such tissue. Although commonly associated with physical strength, sinewy does not necessarily imply bulk; a sinewy frame may be lean but powerful, agile, and efficient. The word often carries connotations of health and stamina as well as stubborn resolve.

Usage: In literature and journalism, sinewy appears most often in reference to bodies—athletes, fighters, or laborers—whose appearance communicates both power and stamina. It can also describe movements or textures that are tight, quick, and economical. Related terms include wiry and lean. The descriptor is typically neutral or favorable, highlighting durability and capability rather than mere size.