Definition

Describing something that is hard, unyielding, or stern, often like the stone flint.

Example

Her flinty expression made it clear that she was not in the mood for jokes.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you noticed how his flinty expression never changes?

Yeah, it makes him seem really tough to approach.

I wonder if that's just his personality or if he's trying to be intimidating.

Probably a bit of both, but it definitely gives off a flinty vibe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Flinty → It originates from the Old English word 'flint' (meaning a hard stone used to make tools and start fires) combined with the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by). The word 'flinty' describes something that is hard or resembling flint.

Memory Tip

Think of the hard stone 'flint' — when something is described as 'flinty', it means it has the characteristics of being hard or tough like flint.

Visually Confused Words