How Do You Spell STIFFISH?

Pronunciation: [stˈɪfɪʃ] (IPA)

The word "stiffish" is spelled with the letters S-T-I-F-F-I-S-H. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈstɪfɪʃ/, which indicates that it is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by an "f" and then an "ish" sound. The word means somewhat stiff or inflexible, and is often used to describe physical objects or people's demeanor. While not a commonly used word, it can add a level of specificity and nuance to one's writing or speech.

STIFFISH Meaning and Definition

1. Stiffish is an adjective that describes something or someone as slightly stiff or rigid in nature or appearance. It is derived from the word "stiff," which refers to a state of lacking flexibility or looseness. The suffix "-ish" is added to indicate a moderate or somewhat extent.

   When used to describe an object, "stiffish" suggests that it is not completely flexible or supple but has a certain degree of rigidity. For example, a stiffish brush could be one that is not too pliable or bendable, offering some resistance when used. Similarly, a stiffish fabric could imply a material that is somewhat firm or resistant to creasing, but not excessively so.

   When applied to describe a person, "stiffish" can refer to their behavior or demeanor. It suggests that the individual may exhibit a certain degree of rigidity or formality, often being cautious or reserved. For instance, someone may be described as stiffish if they tend to be somewhat aloof or hesitant in social situations.

   Overall, stiffish indicates a moderate level of stiffness or rigidity, conveying the idea of slight inflexibility or tautness in either physical objects or people. It is not an extreme term, but rather a subtle way to describe something or someone with hints of stiffness or rigidity while not being fully rigid or stiff.

2. Somewhat stiff.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for STIFFISH

• stffish
• Steffish
• atiffish
• ztiffish
• xtiffish
• dtiffish
• etiffish
• wtiffish
• sriffish
• sfiffish
• sgiffish
• syiffish
• s6iffish
• s5iffish
• stuffish
• stjffish
• stkffish
• st9ffish
• st8ffish
• stidfish

Etymology of STIFFISH

The word "stiffish" is derived from the adjective "stiff", which can be traced back to Old English. In Old English, "stiff" referred to something rigid, inflexible, or lacking suppleness. Over time, the word developed additional meanings, including strictness, severity, or a lack of ease or relaxation. The -ish suffix is added to indicate a moderate or slight degree of the quality described by the base word. Therefore, "stiffish" suggests a somewhat stiff or rigid nature, but to a lesser extent than "stiff" alone.