Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—S

Stiff

An I.O.U.; a bill of acceptance. “Hard,” means hard cash. “Did you get it stiff or hard?” means by an I.O.U. or in cash. Of course “stiff” refers to the stiff interest exacted by money lenders.

“His `stiff' was floating about in too many directions, at too many high figures.” —Ouida: Under Two Flags, chap. vii.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Stigmata
Stickler
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

More on Stiff from Fact Monster:

  • Analogy Quiz - (What is an analogy?) ADVANCE : RECEDE :: stiff : _____ Hint unyielding flexible bone Word Quiz ...
  • Analogy Quiz - (What is an analogy?) STIFF : INFLEXIBLE :: _____ : porch Hint terrace outdoors waterproof Word ...
  • loam - loam loam, soil composed of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter in evenly mixed particles of ...
  • chiffon - chiffon chiffon , plain-weave, lightweight, sheer, transparent fabric made of cotton, silk, or ...
  • négritude - négritude négritude , a literary movement on the part of French-speaking African and ...

Related Content