stiffener

[ stif-uh-ner, stif-ner ]

noun

1. a person or thing that stiffens.
2. any substance, as starch or buckram, that serves to stiffen fabric.

Word History and Origins

Origin of stiffener¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; stiffen + -er ¹

Example Sentences

I say, Lane, fetch me a nobbler of brandy; a stiffener, mind.

From Project Gutenberg

Lane fetched the stiffener in a soda-water bottle, and it cleared the legal atmosphere.

From Project Gutenberg

The bridle or drawing point of the sledge is formed of hide, and is secured to the beak or stiffener.

From Project Gutenberg

Why should a speculator use a high stiffener for his cravat?

From Project Gutenberg

We use the carbon stiffener on a pre-cut round of canvas or denim, then fit a standard tire.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• backing