stubby

UK: ˈstʌbi | US: ˈstʌbi

Definition
  1. adj. short and thick in shape

  2. adj. (of objects) blunt or truncated

  3. adj. (informal) resembling a stub; squat

Structure
stub <short remaining part>y <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "stubby" derives from "stub," which originated from Old English "stybb," meaning the stump of a tree or a short remaining part. The suffix "-y" is a productive English adjectival suffix, often used to describe characteristics (e.g., "bumpy," "fuzzy"). Over time, "stubby" evolved to describe anything short, thick, or blunt, reflecting the visual association with a truncated object. The term is commonly applied to objects (e.g., "stubby fingers," "stubby bottle") and retains a vivid, descriptive quality.

Examples
  1. The toddler grasped the crayon with his stubby fingers.

  2. She preferred stubby pencils for sketching rough drafts.

  3. The hiker tripped over a stubby tree root protruding from the ground.

  4. The brewery is famous for its iconic stubby beer bottles.

  5. His beard was short and stubby, barely covering his chin.