starched

Made rigidly smooth

Starched describes fabric that has been treated with starch to make it stiff and crisp: a starched white shirt, starched collars.

The effect is formal and precise-looking.

Figuratively, a starched manner or personality is stiff, formal, and unyielding—suggesting someone who lacks warmth or flexibility: Her starched demeanor made small talk impossible.

rigid

stiff

Not easily bent

inflexibleUnable to bend
unbendingRefusing to change position
unyieldingRefusing to give way

firm · formal · prim · proper · uptight · stuffy · strait-laced · prudish · reserved · aloof

laundry

linen

Flax-derived textile

ironingSmoothing cloth with heat
sizingDetermining or adjusting dimensions
pressingRequiring immediate attention

shirts · collars · cuffs · sheets · tablecloths · napkins · cotton · fabric · iron · steam

crisp

pressed

Pushed or smoothed flat

ironedSmoothed with heat
creasedBearing pressed lines
unwrinkledHaving no creases

smooth · taut · stiffened · flat · sharp · neat · pristine · sleek · fresh · polished

formal

collar

Neck encirclement

cuffsSleeve or wrist bands
tuxedoMen's formal evening attire
uniformIdentical throughout

livery · butler · waiter · black-tie · gala · ceremony · banquet · military · regalia · ceremonial

starched

stiff

linen

pressed

collar

starched

Opposites

Phrases

Categories

Family