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Stolid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stolid

[หˆstษ’lษชd ]

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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'stolid'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'stolid' originates from the Latin verb 'stolidus', which means 'dull' or 'insensible'. It was derived from the word 'stolidus', referring to someone who lacks mental agility or is not easily moved by emotions. The term began to be used in English in the early 17th century, reflecting a time when emotional restraint was often valued in society. Over the centuries, 'stolid' has been used in literature and speech to describe characters who are emotionally reserved, often highlighting the contrast between their demeanor and the more expressive behaviors of others. The connotation of the word has occasionally shifted between neutral and negative, depending on the context in which it is applied.

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.