Stature Meaning and Definition
Stature
Pronunciation
/ˈsttʃətər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A term used to describe a person’s physical height, shape, or overall appearance; implying a sense of dignity, poise, or grandeur.
Examples
- She has a stature that commands respect.
- He has a stature that is impressive, both in height and presence.
- The company’s stature as a leader in the industry is undeniable.
- The tall and imposing figure of the general commanded respect in the room.
- She felt relieved that her stature had improved since the last check-up.
Synonyms
- Figure
- Presence
- Countenance
Antonyms
- Stooping
- Bowed
- Dowdy
Etymology
The word ‘stature’ originates from the Latin ‘statu’ meaning ‘to stand’, and has been in use since the 15th century to describe a person’s physical stature.
Usage Notes
Stature is often used to describe a person’s overall appearance, including their height, build, and demeanor. It can also be used figuratively to describe a company’s reputation or a concept’s significance.
Cultural References
In literature, stature is often used to describe a character’s physical and emotional presence. For example, in Charles Dickens’ novel ‘David Copperfield’, the character of Mr. Micawber is described as having a “stature most commanding” despite his physical unimpressiveness.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no idiomatic expressions or phrases that directly use the word ‘stature.’ However, phrases like ‘stand tall’ or ‘hold one’s head high’ convey a sense of confidence or stature.
Related Words or Phrases
Words or phrases closely related to ‘stature’ include ‘physique’, ‘build’, ‘figure’, ‘presence’, and ‘countenance.’
Collocations
Common collocations with ‘stature’ include ‘command’, ‘impose’, ‘exude’, ‘radiate’, and ‘project’.
Frequency of Use
Stature is a moderately rare word in modern language, but it has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its versatility in describing both physical and figurative concepts.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of ‘stature’ include ‘staturee’, ‘statire’, and ‘statere.’