Definition

The quality of being rigid or not able to bend easily.

Example

After the workout, I felt a stiffness in my muscles that made it hard to move.

Conversation

I’ve been feeling some stiffness in my back lately.

Oh no! Have you been sitting too long at your desk?

Yeah, I think the stiffness is from my bad posture.

You should try stretching a bit; it really helps with that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stiffness → It is formed from "stiff" (from Old English *stif*, meaning rigid or firm) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "stiffness" refers to the quality of being rigid or firm.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'stiff' to remember that 'stiffness' means the quality of being rigid or firm.

Visually Confused Words