What does “Stiff as a poker” mean?
"Stiff as a poker" means that something or someone is very stiff or rigid.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He stood there, stiff as a poker, refusing to budge.
Example
The old man's back was stiff as a poker from years of hard labor.
Example
She tried to relax, but her muscles were stiff as a poker after the intense workout
Is “Stiff as a poker” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Stiff as a poker” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Stiff as a poker” effectively in context?
You can use "Stiff as a poker" to describe something or someone that is very stiff or rigid. It emphasizes the lack of flexibility or movement. For example, if someone is standing completely still and not responding to any requests or attempts to engage, you might say, 'He stood there, "stiff as a poker", refusing to budge.'
- 1Resistance
Despite the persuasive arguments, she remained stiff as a poker and refused to change her mind.
- 2Physical Condition
After sitting in the same position for hours, his back was stiff as a poker and he could barely move.
- 3Muscle Soreness
She tried to relax, but her muscles were stiff as a poker after the intense workout.
Similar phrases to “Stiff as a poker”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Stiff as a poker” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Stiff as a poker" is unknown.
Is “Stiff as a poker” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Stiff as a poker" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe physical stiffness or rigidity, but can also be used metaphorically to describe someone's resistance or inflexibility.
What tone does “Stiff as a poker” have?
"Stiff as a poker" conveys a tone of rigidity and immobility. It is often used to emphasize the lack of flexibility or movement in a person or object.
Can “Stiff as a poker” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Stiff as a poker" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used to describe physical conditions or metaphorically to describe someone's behavior or attitude. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He stood there, "stiff as a poker", refusing to budge.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'She's "stiff as a poker"' to imply someone's lack of flexibility or movement.
