stiff-backed
Refusing to bend
Stiff-backed describes someone who holds themselves rigidly upright, suggesting formality, pride, or stubborn resolve.
A stiff-backed general refuses to bend; a stiff-backed chair forces you to sit straight.
The term often carries a note of disapproval—implying someone too proud or inflexible to relax or compromise.
Relating to formal rites
- dignifiedComposed and respectable
- properSocially appropriate
- buttoned-upFormally reserved, emotionally guarded
- starchedMade stiff with sizing
prim · austere · courtly · genteel · decorum · etiquette · protocol · stately
Vertical or morally sound
alignment · vertebrae · lumbar · thoracic · cervical · core · ramrod · military bearing
Firmly committed to purpose
- steadfastFirmly loyal, unshakeable
- unyieldingRefusing to give way
- unwaveringSteady and unchanging
- unflinchingRefusing to show fear
tenacious · firm · persistent · dogged · uncompromising · indomitable · persevering · strong-willed
ceremonial
Relating to formal rites
- dignifiedComposed and respectable
- properSocially appropriate
- buttoned-upFormally reserved, emotionally guarded
starched · prim · austere · courtly · genteel · decorum · etiquette · protocol · stately · solemn
upright
Vertical or morally sound
spine · alignment · vertebrae · lumbar · thoracic · cervical · core · ramrod · military bearing · chin up
determined
Firmly committed to purpose
- steadfastFirmly loyal, unshakeable
- unyieldingRefusing to give way
- unwaveringSteady and unchanging
unflinching · tenacious · firm · persistent · dogged · uncompromising · indomitable · persevering · strong-willed · unbending