The word "stogey" refers to a cheap, low-quality cigar, typically made from leftover tobacco or scraps. It is spelled with the letters "s-t-o-g-e-y" and is pronounced /stəʊɡi/. The "o" in "stogey" is pronounced like the "o" in "go" (represented by the symbol /oʊ/ in IPA), while the "e" is pronounced like the "e" in "pet" (represented by the symbol /ɛ/ in IPA). The "y" at the end acts as a suffix and is pronounced as a separate syllable, represented by the symbol /i/.
The term "stogey" has multiple meanings depending on its context, but its primary definition refers to a type of cigar. A stogey is a long, cylindrical roll of dried and fermented tobacco leaves that is commonly smoked. Unlike premium cigars, stogies are typically made from lower-quality tobacco leaves, giving them a reputation for being inexpensive and generally lacking in quality or flavor.
Beyond the realm of cigars, "stogey" can also be used to describe a person or thing that is perceived as old-fashioned, rigid, or outdated. In this sense, it is often used as a slang term to criticize someone or something for being stubbornly attached to traditional or conservative ways of thinking or behaving. For instance, a person with strong opposition to embracing new technologies or ideas might be called a "stogey" as a playful way to mock their resistance to change.
Furthermore, "stogey" can also refer to a type of hat. A stogey hat typically features a wide and flat brim, a high crown, and is made of straw or felt material. This type of hat is commonly associated with Western or cowboy attire and is often worn for protection against the sun or as a fashion statement.
The word "stogey" is believed to have originated from the United States in the mid-19th century. It is derived from the term "Conestoga", which refers to the Conestoga wagon, a large horse-drawn vehicle used for transportation in North America during that time. These wagons were often depicted in Western movies and were associated with the image of rugged cowboys and pioneers.
The term "Conestoga" was shortened to "stogey" and began being used to refer to a type of cigar. Initially, stogies were inexpensive, machine-made cigars that were commonly smoked by working-class people. Over time, the word "stogey" evolved to generally refer to any cheap or low-quality cigar.