Definition

Having a solid and stocky body or form; often used to describe someone who is short and strong.

Example

The thickset man easily lifted the heavy box without any help.

Conversation

Have you seen that new dog in the neighborhood?

Yeah, it looks really thickset and strong!

I wonder what breed it is; it seems pretty unique.

Definitely! I love dogs with that kind of build.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thickset → It is formed from "thick" (from Old English "þicce", meaning having a large distance between opposite sides) and "set" (from Old English "settan", meaning to place or put). The word "thickset" describes something that is placed or arranged in a way that is dense or compact, often referring to a stout or stocky build.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'placed' ('set') in a way that is 'dense' or 'wide' ('thick') — that's why thickset describes a stout or compact form.

Visually Confused Words