sinewy

adj

Etymology: Inherited from Middle English synwy, synewy, synowy (“tendonous”); equivalent to sinew + -y.

1. Tough; having strong sinews.

   “I haue beene wooed, as I intreat thee now, Euen by the ſterne, and direfull God of warre, VVhoſe ſinowie necke in battel nere did bow, VVho conquers where he comes in euery iarre; […]”

   “His right hand (which seemed to me somewhat hairy and sinewy, a sign of great strength in its owner) lay on the side of his heart; […]”

2. Having or showing nervous strength.
3. Possessing physical strength and weight; rugged and powerful.

   “Worthy fellows, and like to prove most sinewy swordmen”

   “Hawat put a sinewy finger beside his eye.”