Definition

Describing a person who has a solid and stocky body shape, often with a broad frame.

Example

The heavyset man walked confidently into the room, drawing everyone's attention.

Conversation

I just met your cousin, and I noticed he's quite heavyset.

Yeah, he has always been a bit stocky since we were kids.

I think he carries it well, though; he seems really confident.

Definitely! Confidence is what really matters in the end.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heavyset is formed from "heavy" (from Old English "hefig", meaning having great weight) and "set" (from Old English "settan", meaning to place or put). The word describes a person who is placed or characterized by being heavy or stout.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'placed' ('set') as 'heavy' — that's why heavyset describes a stout or solidly built person.

Visually Confused Words