The verb withstand has 2 senses (first 2 from tagged texts)
1. (6) defy, withstand, hold, hold up -- (resist or confront with resistance; "The politician defied public opinion"; "The new material withstands even the greatest wear and tear"; "The bridge held")
2. (1) resist, hold out, withstand, stand firm -- (stand up or offer resistance to somebody or something)