stiff - Definition & Meaning | Lingo Dictionary

stiff

not flexible and therefore hard to bend or change shapenot flexible and therefore hard to bend or change shape

Examples

The cardboard was too stiff to fold into the desired shape.
The artist chose a stiff canvas to create a more structured painting.
He found it hard to turn the stiff pages of the old book.

Synonyms

unyielding firm stiff solid hard rigid

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stiff

Comparative

stiffer

Superlative

stiffest

1

not flexible and therefore hard to bend or change shape

The cardboard was too stiff to fold into the desired shape.
The artist chose a stiff canvas to create a more structured painting.
He found it hard to turn the stiff pages of the old book.
The fabric was too stiff to drape nicely.
The new shoes were too stiff and uncomfortable to wear.

Synonyms:

unyielding firm solid hard rigid

2

not moving easily

The door was so stiff that it took a lot of force to open it.

3

having a rigid or reserved demeanor, often due to formality or discomfort

He gave a stiff response to the casual question.
His stiff attitude made it hard to connect with him.
They had a stiff conversation about business matters.
His stiff mannerisms made him seem unapproachable.

Synonyms:

buckram starchy

4

strong or intense in force

5

producing a strong physical or chemical effect

The negotiation process became stiff as both sides refused to compromise on their terms.
After sitting in the same position for hours, I stood up with a stiff back that made it hard to move.
The stiff competition in the job market made it difficult for recent graduates to find employment.
He delivered a stiff reprimand to the employees who failed to meet their deadlines, emphasizing the importance of accountability.
The air was stiff with tension as the two rivals faced each other in the final match of the tournament.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

6

extremely drunk

Synonyms:

tight soaked loaded crocked cockeyed soused fuddled pie-eyed smashed pissed slopped squiffy plastered sozzled besotted wet pixilated blind drunk blotto sloshed

7

showing firm resolve or determination

Synonyms:

steady unfaltering firm steadfast unshakable unbendable unwavering

8

(of a person or body part) unable to move easily or comfortably, often due to pain or tightness in the muscles or joints

He felt stiff from the repetitive movements at work.
The injury left his arm stiff and difficult to move.
After the workout, my muscles were stiff for a few days.
The cold weather made my hands stiff and hard to move.
Her legs were stiff after the long hike.