Starchily: meaning, definitions and examples

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starchily

[ ˈstɑːtʃɪli ]

^{Context #1}

used to describe the manner of doing something

In a stiffly formal or self-consciously dignified manner.

Synonyms

dignified, formally, stiffly

Examples of usage

She starchily refused to shake hands with him.
The headmistress starchily reminded the students of the school rules.

^{Context #2}

used to describe the manner of speaking

In a formal and reserved manner.

Synonyms

formally, primly, reserved

Examples of usage

She replied starchily that she had no intention of discussing the matter further.
He spoke starchily, avoiding any hint of informality.

Translations

Translations of the word "starchily" in other languages:

🇵🇹 com amido

🇮🇳 स्टार्चिली

🇩🇪 stärkehaltig

🇮🇩 bertepung

🇺🇦 крохмально

🇵🇱 skrobiowy

🇯🇵 デンプン質

🇫🇷 amidonné

🇪🇸 con almidón

🇹🇷 nişastalı

🇰🇷 전분이 많은

🇸🇦 نشوي

🇨🇿 škrobovitý

🇸🇰 škrobový

🇨🇳 含淀粉的

🇸🇮 škrobnat

🇮🇸 sterkjukenndur

🇰🇿 крахмалды

🇬🇪 საუცხოო

🇦🇿 nişastalı

🇲🇽 con almidón

Word origin

The term 'starchily' is derived from the word 'starch', which has been used since the 16th century to refer to a substance used to stiffen fabrics. The adverb 'starchily' evolved from this literal usage to describe someone's demeanor or speech as stiff, formal, or reserved. Over time, it has come to connote a sense of self-conscious dignity or formality in behavior.