stout
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /stˈaʊt/
US
- /ˈstaʊt/
Description
- Strong and thick
- Heavily built
- Brave and firm
- Dark beer
"Stout" has a few different uses. It can describe someone who is heavily built or solid in shape. But it does not always mean physically large. "Stout" can also describe someone or something brave, firm, and determined. A stout heart does not give up easily. And finally, you might hear "stout" when talking about beer: a stout is a dark, rich beer, often with a heavy feel. So, whether it describes a person, a quality, or a drink, "stout" usually suggests strength and substance.
Here are some examples: * "The old sailor was a stout man with years of experience at sea." (Physically strong and thickset) * "She showed a stout defense of her beliefs." (Determined and resolute) * "He ordered a pint of stout at the pub." (A dark, heavy beer)
The word "stout" is wonderfully versatile, carrying meanings that range from physical build to moral character and even beverage types. Originally, it meant "bold," "proud," or "brave," stemming from Germanic roots that suggested strength and pride. This sense of unwavering determination still lingers today; we might describe someone with a stout heart as courageous and resilient in the face of adversity.
Over time, "stout" also came to be associated with physical robustness. It is often used to describe people who are heavily built or somewhat plump, though it carries a sense of solidity rather than just weight. Unlike many other words for body size, stout often suggests strength and sturdiness as well.
And then there is stout beer. This dark, rich beer is known for its full-bodied flavor and, in many versions, a creamy texture. The connection is historical: the term was once used for "stout porters," meaning stronger, more substantial versions of porter.
Ultimately, "stout" can describe a person's physique, their inner strength, or even the drink in their glass—all united by the underlying idea of something solid, dependable, and unwavering. It is a word that speaks to both physical presence and moral fortitude.
Examples
- 1
Body shape
He was a short, stout man with a gray beard.
- 2
Hiking gear
You'll need stout boots for the hike.
- 3
Public argument
The minister gave a stout defense of the policy.
Phrase
stout defense
a strong, determined defense
- 4
Beer noun
She ordered a pint of stout at the bar.
Meaning
stout
a dark kind of beer
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- stoutnounadjective
Forms
- stoutspluralnounadjective
- stoutercomparativeadjectivenoun
- stoutestsuperlativeadjectivenoun