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Stubby: meaning, definitions and examples

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stubby

 

[ ˈstʌbi ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

physical description

Stubby refers to something that is short and thick. It often describes an object or a part of a body that is robust or has a sturdy build.

Synonyms

short, stocky, stumpy, thickset

Examples of usage

  • The dog's stubby legs made it look adorable.
  • He held a stubby pencil while writing.
  • The stubby tree was resilient against harsh winds.

Word origin

The term 'stubby' is a diminutive form of 'stub,' which dates back to the late Middle English period (circa 15th century). The word 'stub' comes from the Old English 'stubbe,' meaning a piece of wood or stub of a candle, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*stubō,' adhering to the idea of something short or remaining after the main part has been taken away. The usage of 'stubby' has evolved over time to describe various short or thick objects, particularly in informal contexts. In contemporary English, it is often used in descriptive language that evokes a playful or affectionate tone, especially when referring to animals or objects that are perceived as endearing due to their compact and sturdy characteristics.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,977, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.