STILTED Synonyms: 109 Similar and Opposite Words

stilted

adjective

ˈstil-təd

Definition of stilted

as in uncomfortable

lacking social grace and assurance the conversation was somewhat stilted as we didn't seem to share any interests

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in formal

marked by or showing careful attention to set forms and details a stilted letter of apology that was written and accepted with equal measures of insincerity

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of stilted Staffers are unfailingly warm and helpful, while never seeming stiff or stilted. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 June 2026 Don’t Worry Darling, by contrast, felt too stilted and controlled, too programmed and predictable, almost as if the director felt obligated to rein in her stylistic impulses against a supposedly more complicated story. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 25 Jan. 2026 Tensions between Rian and Patrick flare when Rian drunkenly mentions a brief fling with Shiv, though the film’s clunky edit, which gives little room for the performances to breathe and play out organically within their contexts, makes these frictions feel stilted and juvenile. — Beatrice Loayza, Variety, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for stilted

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stilted

Adjective

Runcie is sharply attuned to the vast uncomfortable grey areas of gender and power relations, navigating them with wry, revelatory observations that are devastatingly acute.

— Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 30 June 2026
That observation carries an uncomfortable implication for executives.

— Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Definition of uncomfortable

Adjective

Fireworks from formal rocket shows to impromptu street celebrations can create extremely unhealthy air quality, sometimes rivaling what comes from wildfires.

— Mary Gilbert, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
The impression was bolstered Friday afternoon when dozens of A-list celebrities were seen heading into the venue in formal wear, from Karlie Kloss and Hugh Grant to Jason Sudeikis and Chris Jones.

— Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2026

Definition of formal

Adjective

Human bodies were like animals’ The few medical instruments of the revolutionary era were heavy in the hand, awkward in use and imprecise to maneuver.

— Katherine Ott, The Conversation, 2 July 2026
In its place are itty-bitty bands that still keep your flats or heels in place, just with less of a chance of awkward tan lines.

— Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 1 July 2026

Definition of awkward

Adjective

Quince This matching set feels especially nice on warm nights, thanks to its naturally cooling bamboo viscose material.

— Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026
Worth checking out The Nest Fragrances Reed Diffuser will keep your bathroom smelling nice with 21 lush scents, including lemon and mint, apricot tea, ginger and vanilla bean, ocean mist and sea salt, grapefruit and more.

— BestReviews, Mercury News, 6 July 2026

Definition of nice

Adjective

Such a feature would neatly get around the need for clumsy remote control sessions to interact with AI agents running on a distant Mac.

— Paul Monckton, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
The head coach was clumsy in his response, saying — in effect — that the player is better suited to being an impact substitute and taking advantage of tiring opposition defenders.

— Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 26 June 2026

Definition of clumsy

Adjective

It is celebrated with a ceremonious parade that features a cavalcade of men dressed in Roman soldier costumes, evoking a sense of solemn thanksgiving and spiritual devotion.

— Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
The ones named Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion by the judges make a ceremonious visit at the end of the day to the Brown Palace Hotel and Spa in downtown Denver.

— Miguel Otárola, Denver Post, 21 Jan. 2026

Definition of ceremonious

Browse Nearby Words

stilt

stilted

stilts

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Style

“Stilted.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stilted. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of stilted

adjective

Example Sentences

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