stiff-arm

[ stif-ahrm ]

verb (used with object), noun

Origin of stiff-arm

First recorded in 1905–10

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

And so rather than make a proposal and then respond to a stiff arm with a better offer, he is refusing to negotiate with himself.
A Guide to the Fiscal Cliff Hostage Talks | Daniel Gross | November 30, 2012 | THE DAILY BEAST
And tonight, when he had the opportunity, Obama gave the tough issues the stiff arm.
Ducking the Tough Issues | Mark McKinnon | January 25, 2011 | THE DAILY BEAST
Used to wear his blue shirt and his boots and give his damned stiff-arm salute all over the place.
The Five Arrows | Allan Chase
Zack swung his stiff arm and the gambler bounced back as though he had been struck with a club.
Bring Me His Ears | Clarence E. Mulford
A French soldier had crept in and raised the stiff arm of the mannikin to the salute, pushed back the hat to a rakish angle.
They Shall Not Pass | Frank H. Simonds

Buck raised a stiff arm and gently drew her toward him with a wonderfully protecting movement.
The Golden Woman | Ridgwell Cullum
Athalie also sat down in the stiff arm-chair by the table where her crystal stood on its tripod.
Athalie | Robert W. Chambers

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