Meaning & Definition of word "Stiff"
Stiff
/stɪf/
noun:
- 1. A person who is rigid or unyielding in manner or attitude.
- Example: He was such a stiff at work, always following the rules without question.
adjective:
- 1. Rigid or firm; not easily bent or flexed.
- Example: The stiff fabric of the shirt does not allow for much movement.
- 2. Not willing to change or adapt; inflexible.
- Example: He has a stiff attitude towards new ideas and suggestions.
- 3. Strongly held or firmly established.
- Example: There was a stiff competition among the teams for the championship.
- 4. Having an excessive degree of formality or severity.
- Example: The stiff decor of the restaurant made it feel less welcoming.
- 5. Severe or intense, usually referring to pain or discomfort.
- Example: After the workout, I had a stiff neck that took a while to ease.
Etymology
●Old English stīfer; of Germanic origin.
Common Phrases and Expressions
stiff upper lip:
To remain resolute and unemotional in the face of adversity.
stiff as a board:
Very rigid or inflexible.
stiff competition:
Strong rivalry in a particular field or market.
Related Words
rigidity:
The quality of being rigid or inflexible.
stiffness:
The quality of being stiff.
inflection:
The act of bending or the condition of being bent.
Slang Meanings of stiff
Meaning: A term for someone who is overly serious or formal.
● Example Sentence: Don't be such a stiff at the party!
Meaning: Referring to a strong alcoholic drink.
● Example Sentence: He poured himself a stiff after the rough day.