Reading Theme:
Stout: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：heavily built (stout)
stout
/staʊt/
adj.
Describes someone, especially a middle-aged man, who is quite fat and heavy-set, with a round belly.
heavily built
➕
/ˈhɛvɪli bɪlt/
adj.
Describes a person, particularly an older man, with a solid, broad, and often somewhat fat build.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Middle English, related to Old French 'estout' meaning proud, brave.
💡 Mnemonic
STOUT sounds like someone who's STOked and strOUT - solid and strong!
📖 Example
The friendly, stout old gentleman at the bakery always gives me an extra cookie.
The kind, heavily built elderly man working at the bakery consistently offers me an additional cookie.
🔗 Collocations
stout fellow – A man of strong, solid build.
stout figure – A person's body shape that is broad and solid.
grow stout – To become heavier or more solidly built over time.
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
stoutness (n.) – The quality or state of being stout.
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'stout' originates from the Old French 'estout', meaning 'brave' or 'proud'. Historically, it described a bold spirit. This meaning evolved to denote physical sturdiness and robustness, and is famously used to name a type of dark, strong beer.
Meaning 2：strong and sturdy (stout)
stout
/staʊt/
adj.
Describes an object that is very strong, solid, and not easily broken, like a thick wooden table.
strong and sturdy
➕
/strɒŋ ænd ˈstɜːdi/
adj.
Describes an object that is physically strong, thick, and durable, unlikely to break or fail.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
We need a stout wooden table for the garden that can withstand all kinds of weather.
We require a strong and sturdy wooden table for the outdoor garden that is capable of enduring various weather conditions.
🔗 Collocations
stout stick – A thick, strong walking stick or branch.
stout boots – Boots made of thick, durable material for tough conditions.
stout material – Fabric or substance that is thick and hard-wearing.
🔄 Synonyms
sturdy (adj.) – Strongly and solidly built, able to withstand pressure.
robust (adj.) – Strong and healthy; not likely to fail or weaken.
substantial (adj.) – Of considerable importance, size, or worth; solidly built.
Meaning 3：determined and resolute (stout)
stout
/staʊt/
adj.
Describes someone's spirit, will, or determination as very strong and resolute, not giving up easily.
determined and resolute
➕
/dɪˈtɜːmɪnd ænd ˈrɛzəluːt/
adj.
Describes a person's attitude, heart, or spirit as brave, determined, and full of resolve.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Despite numerous failures, she maintained a stout heart and continued to pursue her dream of becoming a scientist.
In the face of many setbacks, she kept a determined and resolute spirit and persistently worked toward her goal of becoming a scientist.
🔗 Collocations
stout heart – A courageous and determined attitude.
stout defense – A determined and vigorous effort to protect or justify something.
stout resistance – Strong and determined opposition.
🔄 Synonyms
resolute (adj.) – Admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering.
steadfast (adj.) – Resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering.
unyielding (adj.) – Not giving way to pressure; firm and determined.
🚫 Antonyms
fainthearted (adj.) – Lacking courage or conviction; timid.
wavering (adj.) – Becoming unsteady or unreliable; hesitating.
🌱 Derivatives
stoutly (adv.) – In a brave, determined, or forceful manner.
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