sty
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /staɪ/
KK: /staɪ/
noun
Definition
A small building or area where pigs are kept, often dirty and messy.
Example
The farmer built a new sty for the pigs to stay in during the winter.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a sty on someone's eyelid?
Yeah, I had one last year, and it was so uncomfortable!
I can't imagine how annoying that must have been.
It really was, but luckily it went away after a few days.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pigsty
pen
shed
Antonyms
cleanliness
order
sanctuary
transitive verb
Definition
To confine or keep an animal, especially a pig, in a dirty or enclosed space.
Example
The farmer decided to sty the pigs to keep them safe from predators.
Tense Forms
Past: stied
Past Participle: stied
Conversation
Did you hear about that farm where they sty the pigs?
Yeah, I read they have a special setup just for them.
I can't believe how they sty them so comfortably.
Root Explanation
The word 'sty' originates from Old English 'stig', meaning a place or a pen for pigs. It refers specifically to a pigpen or a shelter for swine.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'place' ('stig') where pigs are kept — that's why 'sty' refers to a pigpen.
Visually Confused Words
stey
stay
st