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Stoop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stoop

[stuหp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

at home

A small porch or set of steps at the front entrance of a house.

Synonyms

entrance, porch, steps.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stoop

Stoop is commonly used in American English to describe the small staircase leading to the entrance of a house, especially in urban settings. It often implies a place where people can sit and relax.

  • He was sitting on the stoop, enjoying the warm evening breeze.
  • We gathered on the stoop to chat with neighbors.
porch

Porch is a covered shelter projecting in front of the entrance of a building. It's often used in suburban or rural contexts, suggesting a space for relaxation.

  • We enjoyed our morning coffee on the porch.
  • She decorated the porch with flowers and lights.
steps

Steps refer to a series of flat horizontal surfaces (stairs) used for walking up or down to another level. It is a neutral term that can be used in various settings.

  • The house has a series of steps leading up to the front door.
  • Mind the steps while you're carrying those boxes.
entrance

Entrance is a more general term and is used to describe the point where you enter a building or room. It is neutral and formal, without any specific connotations.

  • Please use the main entrance to access the building.
  • The grand entrance to the hotel was beautifully decorated.

Examples of usage

  • The old man sat on the stoop, watching the world go by.
  • She waited for her friend on the stoop of the house.
Context #2 | Verb

bend down

To bend down or hunch over, often used to refer to posture or movement.

Synonyms

bend, crouch, hunch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stoop

Typically used to describe the act of bending one's body forward and down, often in a way that shows effort or strain, and can have a slightly negative connotation if it implies poor posture or subservience.

  • He had to stoop to pick up the heavy box
  • Years of office work caused him to stoop over his desk
bend

A general term for the act of curving or angling part of the body, usually without any negative connotation. It can be used in many contexts, such as physical activity, sports, or daily tasks.

  • She bent down to tie her shoelaces
  • The gymnast gracefully bent her body into a backbend
hunch

Describes bending the upper part of the body forward and rounding the shoulders, often in response to discomfort or tension. It carries a slightly negative connotation related to poor posture or anxiety.

  • She hunched over her laptop for hours, working on the report
  • Cold weather often causes people to hunch their shoulders to stay warm
crouch

Refers to lowering the body close to the ground by bending the knees, often in a position of readiness or to avoid being seen. It can imply a sense of alertness or caution.

  • The cat crouched in the grass, ready to pounce on its prey
  • He had to crouch behind the wall to avoid being seen

Examples of usage

  • She had to stoop to pick up the fallen papers.
  • He stooped to tie his shoelaces.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, a stooped posture can signify age, wisdom, or humility.
  • Traditionally, stooping was often associated with laborers or those working closely with the earth, showing the connection between hard work and physical posture.
  • In some communities, images of stooped figures are often used in art to convey themes of struggle and resilience.

Health and Psychology

  • Consistent stooping can lead to back problems, indicating the importance of posture in health.
  • Psychologically, a stooped posture can reflect feelings of defeat or low self-esteem.
  • Conversely, standing tall can boost confidence and self-perception, contrasting the act of stooping.

Literature

  • In literature, stooped characters often embody wisdom gained from hardship.
  • Famous novels often depict elderly, stooped figures as symbols of timeless knowledge or tradition.
  • The act of stooping has been used metaphorically to discuss themes of humility and surrender.

Origin of 'stoop'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'stopen,' meaning to bend or stoop.
  • It has roots in Old English 'stลpian,' which is related to the concept of bending or leaning.
  • Similar words appear in Germanic languages, highlighting a shared meaning across different tongues.

The word 'stoop' originates from Middle English 'stoep', which in turn comes from Old Dutch 'stoep'. It originally referred to a small platform or doorstep at the entrance of a building. Over time, the meaning expanded to include both the steps leading up to a house and the action of bending down. The word has been used in English since the 16th century.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,031, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.