Meaning & use
stiff
Not easily bent or moved; rigid, tense, or difficult to flex.
See it in a sentence
My neck felt stiff after sleeping on the plane in an awkward position.
The old door hinges were so stiff that we had to lean into it to open it.
A note on using this word
Stiff can describe physical rigidity, a formal or awkward manner, or a strong drink or price; context determines which sense applies.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
flexiblelimp
Another way to use it
2. adjective
Formal, awkward, or lacking warmth in manner.
His stiff greeting made the new employees feel unwelcome at first.
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