stiffly
UK: ˈstɪfli | US: ˈstɪfli
adv. in a rigid or inflexible manner
adv. with difficulty or awkwardness (e.g., movement)
adv. in a formal or constrained way (e.g., behavior)
The word "stiffly" combines the Old English root "stiff" (meaning rigid or unbending) with the adverbial suffix "-ly," which transforms adjectives into adverbs. "Stiff" itself traces back to Proto-Germanic *stifaz, conveying firmness or lack of flexibility. Over time, "-ly" (from Old English "-līce") became a standard way to denote manner or quality. The fusion reflects how physical rigidity (stiff) evolved to describe both literal and figurative behaviors (stiffly).
He stood stiffly at attention during the ceremony.
The old door opened stiffly due to rusted hinges.
She greeted her boss stiffly, avoiding eye contact.
The dancer moved stiffly after her injury.
His handwriting appeared stiffly formal, lacking fluidity.