Meaning & Definition of word "Stiffness"
to
Stiffness
/ˈstɪf.nəs/
noun:
- 1. The quality or condition of being stiff; rigidity.
- Example: The stiffness of the fabric made it difficult to move comfortably.
- 2. The state of being unable to bend or move easily.
- Example: After the workout, I felt a stiffness in my muscles that lasted all day.
- 3. Lack of ease or grace in movement or manner.
- Example: His stiffness during the interview made the conversation awkward.
- 4. A measure of the resistance of an object to deformation.
- Example: The engineer calculated the stiffness of the beam to ensure it could support the load.
Etymology
Derived from the Middle English 'stifnesse', from 'stif' + '-ness'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
muscle stiffness:
Tightness or soreness in muscles after physical activity.
stiff upper lip:
Maintaining a calm and stoic demeanor in difficult situations.
stiff neck:
A condition characterized by inability to turn or flex the neck due to soreness or tightness.
Related Words
stiff:
Having a hard or rigid texture; not easily bent.
rigid:
Not flexible; unable to bend or be forced out of shape.
Slang Meanings of stiffness
Meaning: To be overly formal or serious.
Example Sentence: No need to be so stiff at the party, just relax and have fun!
Meaning: Referring to someone who is uptight or not easygoing.
Example Sentence: Don't be stiff, join us on the dance floor!