Posture

/ˈpɒstʃər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The position in which someone holds their body when standing or sitting.
She maintained a confident posture during the presentation.
A particular way of dealing with or considering something; an approach or attitude.
His posture towards the new policy was one of skepticism.
A position adopted by a person or animal for a specific purpose.
The dog took a defensive posture when approached by strangers.
verb
To position (someone or something) in a particular way.
They postured the sculpture in the center of the garden for visibility.
To behave in a way that is intended to impress or mislead others.
He postured as an expert in the field, despite his lack of experience.

Etymology

From Latin ‘postura’, from ‘ponere’ meaning 'to place'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

strike a pose:
To adopt a particular position for a photograph or display.
take a stand:
To adopt a firm position on a particular issue.
body language:
The nonverbal signals expressed through posture and bodily movements.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To pose or act in a certain way to impress others.
He was just posturing to impress his friends at the party.
To maintain a facade or pretense.
She was only posturing about her interest in the subject.