“As stiff as a board” is an idiom that is commonly used in the English language. It is often used to describe someone or something that is rigid, inflexible, or unyielding. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of this idiom, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The phrase “as stiff as a board” is an idiomatic expression that refers to something that is extremely rigid or inflexible. It is often used to describe a person who is physically tense or emotionally unyielding. The phrase can also be used to describe an object that is rigid or inflexible, such as a piece of wood or metal.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “as stiff as a board” is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century. The phrase may have been inspired by the stiffness of a wooden board, which is often used as a metaphor for rigidity or inflexibility.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “as stiff as a board” means “very stiff or rigid.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines the phrase as “completely stiff and unable to bend or move.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “extremely rigid or inflexible.”
Associations
The phrase “as stiff as a board” is often associated with physical tension or emotional rigidity. It can be used to describe someone who is nervous, anxious, or fearful, as well as someone who is stubborn or unyielding. The phrase can also be used to describe an object that is rigid or inflexible, such as a piece of wood or metal.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “as stiff as a board” include:
- Rigid.
- Inflexible.
- Unyielding.
- Tense.
- Stiff.
- Hard.
- Solid.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “as stiff as a board” include:
- Flexible.
- Pliable.
- Supple.
- Relax.
- Soften.
- Yielding.
- Bendable.
The same root words
The phrase “as stiff as a board” does not have any specific root words, as it is an idiomatic expression. However, the words “stiff” and “board” are both common English words with their own definitions.
Example Sentences
- “After sitting in the same position for hours, my back was as stiff as a board.”
- “The old wooden door was as stiff as a board and wouldn’t budge.”
- “She was as stiff as a board during the job interview, and the interviewer could tell she was nervous.”
- “The new employee was as stiff as a board and had trouble fitting in with the rest of the team.”
- “The metal rod was as stiff as a board and couldn’t be bent by hand.”
In conclusion, “as stiff as a board” is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used to describe something that is extremely rigid or inflexible. It can be used to describe a person who is physically tense or emotionally unyielding, as well as an object that is rigid or inflexible. The phrase has no specific root words, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century.