stilted
UK: ˈstɪltɪd | US: ˈstɪltɪd
adj. (of speech or writing) artificially formal or pompous
adj. (of behavior) stiff and self-conscious; lacking natural ease
The word "stilted" derives from the noun "stilt," referring to the long poles used to walk above ground or water. By the 17th century, "stilt" metaphorically described anything artificially elevated or unnatural. The suffix "-ed" transforms it into an adjective, capturing the sense of forced elevation—whether in language (overly formal) or demeanor (awkwardly rigid). The imagery of walking on stilts perfectly mirrors the word’s modern meaning: an unnatural, strained effort to appear elevated.
The diplomat’s stilted speech failed to connect with the audience.
Her stilted laughter revealed her discomfort at the party.
The novel’s dialogue felt stilted and unrealistic.
He greeted them with a stilted bow, clearly out of practice.
The actor’s stilted performance drew criticism from reviewers.