Stuffiness

Stuffiness, in its broadest sense, describes a state of being lacking in air circulation, leading to discomfort, or a state of being overly formal, pompous, or lacking in originality. This can refer to the physical environment, such as a room with poor ventilation and a heavy atmosphere, or to social and intellectual settings, characterized by rigid rules, conventionality, and a lack of openness. It evokes a sense of constraint, restriction, and an absence of fresh or invigorating elements. stuffiness can manifest in both the physical and the metaphorical, affecting the atmosphere, conduct, and expression within a given context.

Stuffiness meaning with examples

• The old Victorian mansion suffered from a persistent stuffiness due to its closed windows and heavy draperies, making it uncomfortable on warm afternoons. They needed to let some fresh air in. The oppressive atmosphere stifled any desire to linger.
• Despite the numerous air conditioning units, the packed convention hall still suffered from a stuffiness, resulting in attendees fanning themselves and seeking the exits to find some cooler air in order to breathe.
• The museum's exhibit on medieval weaponry was criticized for a pervasive stuffiness. The rigid curatorial style emphasized technical details at the expense of any human element or relatable context.
• During the dinner party, the conversation quickly dissolved into stuffiness. Guests adhered to strict etiquette, making any genuine interaction or laughter nearly impossible. It was not fun.
• The novel's prose suffered from an unwelcome stuffiness; instead of conveying genuine emotion, the author relied heavily on overly ornate and contrived language, diminishing the emotional impact.