stilted

stilt·ed

adjective \ˈstil-təd\

Definition of STILTED

1

a : pompous, lofty

b : formal, stiff

2

: having the curve beginning at some distance above the impost <a stilted arch>

— stilt·ed·ly adverb

— stilt·ed·ness noun

Examples of STILTED

1. <the conversation was somewhat stilted as we didn't seem to share any interests>
2. <a stilted letter of apology that was written and accepted with equal measures of insincerity>

First Known Use of STILTED

1820

Related to STILTED

Synonyms

clumsy, gauche, graceless, inelegant, rough-hewn, rustic (also rustical), stiff, awkward, uncomfortable, uneasy, ungraceful, wooden

Antonyms

graceful, suave, urbane

Related Words

angular, gawky, lubberly, ungainly; boorish, clownish, uncouth; abashed, discomfited, discomforted, discomposed, disconcerted, discountenanced, embarrassed; self-conscious; agitated, bothered, chagrined, dismayed, disquieted, distressed, disturbed, fazed, flustered, jittery, jumpy, mortified, nervous, nonplussed (also nonplused), perturbed, rattled, unhinged, unsettled, upset; diffident, insecure, meek, modest, self-doubting, timid, unassertive, unassuming, unpretentious

Near Antonyms

assured, calm, collected, composed, confident, cool, placid, poised, secure, self-assured, self-confident, self-possessed, serene, tranquil, undisturbed, unperturbed