Langimage
English

stiffly

|stiff/ly|

B2

/ˈstɪf.li/

(stiff)

rigid, inflexible

Base FormPluralNounAdverb
stiffstiffsstiffnessstiffly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'stiffly' originates from the Old English word 'stif,' where 'stif' meant 'rigid or inflexible.'

Historical Evolution

'stif' changed from the Old English word 'stif' and eventually became the modern English word 'stiffly.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'rigid or inflexible,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in a manner that is not relaxed or friendly.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is not relaxed or friendly.

She greeted him stiffly, avoiding eye contact.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adverb 2

in a way that is difficult to bend or move.

The clothes were hanging stiffly on the line.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42