stance
UK: stɑːns | US: stæns
n. 1. The way in which someone stands, especially as part of a sport or activity.
n. 2. A particular attitude or way of thinking about something; a standpoint.
stance = sta<stand> + nce<noun suffix>
- sta<stand>: From Latin stare (to stand), also seen in words like "station" and "static."
- nce<noun suffix>: A nominalizing suffix derived from Latin -antia or Old French -ance, indicating a state or quality (e.g., "distance," "resistance").
Etymology Origin:
The word "stance" entered English in the late 16th century via Old French estance (position, posture), tracing back to Latin stare (to stand). It originally described physical posture (e.g., in fencing or archery) but later expanded metaphorically to denote mental or ideological "standing" (e.g., political stance). The root sta- reflects stability and fixedness, linking to broader Indo-European roots like steh₂- (to stand).
Her wide stance helped maintain balance during the yoga pose.
The politician clarified his stance on environmental policies.
The coach corrected the player’s batting stance.
Artists often take a creative stance against societal norms.
The debate revealed their opposing stances on the issue.