stiffener

[ stif-uh-ner, stif-ner ]

/ ˈstɪf ə nər, ˈstɪf nər /

a person or thing that stiffens.

any substance, as starch or buckram, that serves to stiffen fabric.

Nearby words

First recorded in 1690–1700; stiffen + -er¹

"Weel, that is a stiffener," he said, drawing a long breath.
A Son of Hagar|Sir Hall Caine
Another draught, Anthony; a stiffener to thy courage, mayhap.
Traditions of Lancashire, Volume 1 (of 2)|John Roby
The bridle or drawing point of the sledge is formed of hide, and is secured to the beak or stiffener.
Shifts and Expedients of Camp Life, Travel & Exploration|W. B. Lord
I say, Lane, fetch me a nobbler of brandy; a stiffener, mind.
The Book of the Bush|George Dunderdale

The fact is, my head is so heavy, that it rolls about on my shoulders; and I must have a stiffener down my throat to prop it up.
Olla Podrida|Frederick Marryat