STUMPY Synonyms: 71 Similar and Opposite Words

stumpy

adjective

ˈstəm-pē

Definition of stumpy

as in stout

being compact and broad in build and often short in stature stumpy penguins become agile swimmers the moment they hit the water

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of stumpy At one point, someone on InSight’s science team wondered if the lander’s somewhat stumpy arm could prod the solar panels, or perhaps scrape off some dust. — Robin George Andrews, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 Mar. 2022 These were kings, calmer and more aloof than the royals, going through their annual molt, their stumpy bodies a mess of patchy old plumage being pushed up and out by new growth. — Simon Willis, Travel + Leisure, 14 Dec. 2021 Clearly, this was not some unmarked but common alternative route; it was studded with stumpy pine trees, and the terrain made for hard going. — Rachel Monroe, Outside Online, 16 Oct. 2018 Previously, scientists had thought that tardigrades evolved their stumpy bodies by fusing body segments together. — Elizabeth Preston, Discover Magazine, 26 Jan. 2016 See All Example Sentences for stumpy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stumpy

Adjective

The offensive line, which gave up three first-half sacks against Pittsburgh last weekend before settling in later in the game, will face a stout test in the Tar Heels’ defensive front.

— Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2026
However, while the Broncos’ defense has allowed 10 TDs and four field goals on 19 red-zone visits, the Bobcats aren’t quite as stout.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of stout

Adjective

The tangle of stubby points stood out like overgrown thumbs, and the down-curving prongs on either side of his head were at least a foot long.

— Al Dawson, Outdoor Life, 15 Oct. 2026
The dodo, with its waddling gait, its stubby wings, its goggly eyes, and its preposterous beak, has none of the power, grace, or charisma of those other animals—but that’s part of its charm.

— Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of stubby

Adjective

Groundhogs have stocky frames and brown coloring and are famous for digging holes and leaving piles of dirt in the process, says Jackel.

— Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 22 Oct. 2026
The fries are of the thick, stocky variety and require immediate consumption.

— Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of stocky

Adjective

Sit with your feet wide apart and elevate them on blocks, stools, or a squatty potty to lift your knees above your hips.

— Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 2025
Early on, many Falcons players and coaches misinterpreted his squatty 6-foot-3-ish, 305-pound frame and notably rounded midsection as a lack of athleticism.

— Josh Kendall, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2025

Definition of squatty

Adjective

You also get built-in Wi-Fi for remote app control, 8 months of battery life, and a sturdy IP53 weather-resistant design to ensure your home stays protected around the clock.

— Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026
After recognizing the need for sturdier work pants, Strauss partnered with tailor Jacob Davis to develop a design that used copper rivets on denim and duck canvas pants, laying the foundation for the modern blue jean.

— Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026

Definition of sturdy

Browse Nearby Words

stumps

stumpy

stun

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“Stumpy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stumpy. Accessed 2 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of stumpy

adjective

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