Definition

Having short, stiff hairs or bristles, often referring to facial hair that has not been shaved for a few days.

Example

He looked rugged with his stubbled face after a few days without shaving.

Conversation

I noticed that your face looks a bit stubbled today.

Yeah, I haven't had time to shave this week.

It actually gives you a rugged look, though.

Thanks! I might keep it like this for a while.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stubbled → The word 'stubbled' comes from 'stubble' (from Old English 'stubbel', meaning a short, rough growth of hair or grass) and the suffix '-ed' (indicating a past participle). The term 'stubbled' refers to having short, rough hair, typically on the face, resembling the stubble left after shaving.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stubble' as the short, rough hair that remains after cutting, and remember that 'stubbled' describes having that kind of hair.

Visually Confused Words