Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But they're fairly stiffly dressed, they're all standing apart and it looks like they've just been presented a prize on a game show.

From BBC • Dec. 22, 2025

But as she approached him, she said, he held out his arm stiffly to keep her back, and shook her hand instead.

From New York Times • Feb. 6, 2024

Boogie Ellis walked stiffly into the postgame interview room, dragging his left leg behind him the same way the fifth-year senior is trying to drag an underachieving USC team into the postseason picture.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2024

Ricotta dumplings chewed stiffly doughy, rather than like tasty, light morsels; accompanying pea pods stayed pleasantly crunchy, but for $28, the mushrooms were scant — and cremini, with morels in season.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 7, 2023

I have no idea how people with memory-wipe are supposed to walk or talk, so I sit quietly, holding my arms stiffly at my sides.

From "The Last Cuentista" by Donna Barba Higuera