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 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

The passengers were packed in so tight she could scarcely move, sitting stiffly for days with her arms hugging her knees.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 12, 2023

Mohammed sat flanked by rows of male relatives, both his hands heavily bandaged, held up in front of him stiffly like a boxer, the tip of his thumbs peeking out.

From BBC • Nov. 30, 2023

After sitting for a moment in silence, she said very stiffly to Elizabeth,

From "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen