stuffy

1 of 2

adjective

stuffier; stuffiest
Synonyms of stuffynext
1
2
: lacking in vitality or interest : stodgy, dull
3
a
: oppressive to the breathing : close
a stuffy room
b
: stuffed up
a stuffy nose
4
a
: narrowly inflexible in standards of conduct : self-righteous
b
: stiffly conventional : priggish
stuffy formalities
stuffily adverb
stuffiness noun

stuffiness

2 of 2

noun

stuff·​i·​ness -fēnə̇s How to pronounce stuffiness (audio)
-fin-
plural -es
: the quality or state of being stuffy

Examples of stuffy in a Sentence

Adjective It's very stuffy in here. She had a stuffy nose. I had a stuffy feeling in my head. the stuffiest members of that exclusive club
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adjective
While some inns might feel stuffy, this one strikes a more approachable balance, with thoughtful touches like free parking, complimentary popcorn in the rooms, and welcome drinks. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 June 2026 What experts say about asthma and long-term exposure For people with asthma, COPD or chronic allergies, the risk goes beyond a stuffy nose. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 8 June 2026 To keep your candles in pristine condition, store them in a cool indoor closet rather than a stuffy garage. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 2026 An almost-obsessive devotion to comfort, knowing that your roster of responsibilities is stressful enough without the annoyance of stiff, stuffy clothing. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stuffy

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1798, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stuffy was in 1798

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stuffy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stuffy. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

stuffy

adjective
stuffier; stuffiest
1
2
a
: lacking fresh air
a stuffy room
b
: stuffed or choked up
had a stuffy feeling in my head
3
: lacking in pep or interest : dull, stodgy
4
stuffily adverb
stuffiness noun

Medical Definition

stuffy

adjective
stuffier; stuffiest
: affected with congestion
a stuffy nose
stuffiness noun

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