stiffness

[stɪfnəs]

stiffness Definition

• 1. the quality of being difficult to bend or move, or the degree to which something is difficult to bend or move
• 2. the state of being physically tense or rigid
• 3. the quality of being formal or lacking ease

Using stiffness: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "stiffness" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The stiffness of the new shoes made it hard for her to walk.

• Example

  He woke up with a stiffness in his neck.

• Example

  The stiffness of his demeanor made it hard for people to approach him.

stiffness Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for stiffness

• rigidity
• inflexibility
• tenseness
• awkwardness
• formality

Antonyms for stiffness

• flexibility
• looseness
• relaxation
• informality

Phrases with stiffness

• stiff upper lip

  the quality of remaining calm and not showing emotion in difficult situations

  Example

  Despite the bad news, she kept a stiff upper lip and continued with her work.

• stiff competition

  strong competition that is difficult to beat

  Example

  The company faced stiff competition from other firms in the industry.

• stiff drink

  a strong alcoholic drink

  Example

  After a long day at work, he likes to unwind with a stiff drink.

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Summary: stiffness in Brief

The term 'stiffness' [stɪfnəs] refers to the quality of being difficult to bend or move, as well as the state of being physically tense or rigid. It can also refer to a lack of ease or formality. Examples include 'The stiffness of the new shoes made it hard for her to walk.' and 'The stiffness of his demeanor made it hard for people to approach him.' Phrases like 'stiff upper lip' denote remaining calm in difficult situations, while 'stiff competition' refers to strong competition that is difficult to beat.