Stolid: meaning, definitions and examples

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stolid

 

[ˈstɒlɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

emotion display

Stolid describes a person who is calm, dependable, and showing little emotion or animation. Someone who is stolid may not react to events or situations in a way that shows excitement, surprise, or strong feelings. This term often implies a certain level of indifference or a lack of interest in emotional expressions, which can be interpreted as being impassive or unruffled. While being stolid can convey stability, it may also be viewed as lacking in warmth or emotional depth.

Synonyms

calm, impassive, stoic, unemotional.

Examples of usage

  • His stolid demeanor did not change even during the celebrations.
  • Despite the chaos around him, she remained stolid and composed.
  • The stolid audience showed no sign of excitement during the performance.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'stolidus,' which means 'dull' or 'insensitive.'
  • It has stayed close to its original meaning, linking to both emotion and thought.
  • The term was used in English writing since the early 17th century, showing persistent human observations of emotion.

Literature

  • Stolid characters often appear in novels to highlight contrasts with more emotional figures, making the dynamics interesting.
  • In literature, stolid characters sometimes serve as a grounding force, helping to maintain balance in the plot.
  • Famous stolid characters, like Mr. Darcy from 'Pride and Prejudice,' enrich the narrative through their emotional restraint.

Psychology

  • People described as stolid may have developed emotional regulation techniques to cope with stress.
  • In psychology, stolid behavior can sometimes be a sign of introversion, where feelings are kept more private.
  • Stolid individuals can help diffuse tense situations due to their calm demeanor.

Pop Culture

  • Many action movie heroes are portrayed as stolid, focusing on their mission instead of emotions.
  • In cartoons, the stolid character might play the 'straight man' to a more animated, humorous sidekick, creating comedic contrast.
  • Famous actors like Clint Eastwood often embody stolid characters, known for their tough exterior.

Translations

Translations of the word "stolid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impassível

🇮🇳 निष्क्रिय

🇩🇪 starrsinnig

🇮🇩 kaku

🇺🇦 незворушний

🇵🇱 stolidity

🇯🇵 無表情の

🇫🇷 impassible

🇪🇸 impasible

🇹🇷 duygusuz

🇰🇷 무감각한

🇸🇦 غير مبالٍ

🇨🇿 stolidní

🇸🇰 stolidný

🇨🇳 冷漠的

🇸🇮 neobčutljiv

🇮🇸 daufur

🇰🇿 салқын

🇬🇪 უსიტყვო

🇦🇿 sözdən kənar

🇲🇽 impasible

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,280, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.