WORKING STIFF Meaning and
Definition
-
Working stiff is an idiomatic expression that refers to an individual who performs manual labor or holds a low-paying, labor-intensive job. This term is commonly used to describe someone who toils diligently to make a living but rarely attains significant wealth or upward social mobility.
The phrase "working stiff" is often used to emphasize the physical exertion and lack of upward mobility associated with these types of jobs. It implies that the individual leads a laborious and monotonous existence, where hard work takes precedence over personal satisfaction.
A working stiff typically carries out tasks that require physical strength and endurance, such as construction work, factory labor, or other demanding jobs. While the term originally referred to blue-collar workers, it has expanded to include individuals in various sectors who find themselves in a similar socio-economic situation.
This expression may also convey a sense of sympathy for those who work tirelessly yet struggle to break free from the constraints of their circumstances. It highlights the disparity between the efforts put forth by working stiffs and the rewards they receive in return, often emphasizing the lack of commensurate financial and social recognition.
In summary, a "working stiff" refers to an individual who engages in physically demanding, low-paying work with limited opportunities for advancement. It captures the idea of a dedicated laborer whose hard work is not adequately reflected in their socioeconomic status.
Common Misspellings for WORKING STIFF
- qorking stiff
- aorking stiff
- sorking stiff
- eorking stiff
- 3orking stiff
- 2orking stiff
- wirking stiff
- wkrking stiff
- wlrking stiff
- wprking stiff
- w0rking stiff
- w9rking stiff
- woeking stiff
- wodking stiff
- wofking stiff
- wotking stiff
- wo5king stiff
- wo4king stiff
- worjing stiff
- worming stiff
Etymology of WORKING STIFF
The phrase "working stiff" is an idiomatic expression that originated in American English around the early 20th century. It combines two separate words: "working" and "stiff".
1. Working: The term "working" comes from the Old English word "weorcian", which means "to work". Over time, this evolved into the Middle English word "werken", and eventually into the modern English word "work". It refers to engaging in physical or mental labor to earn a living.
2. Stiff: The word "stiff", in this context, is used as a slang term that refers to a person who is rigid, formal, or lacking spontaneity. While its exact origin is uncertain, it has been used to describe someone who is inflexible, serious, or lacking temperament.
Idioms with the word WORKING STIFF
-
working stiff
A working stiff is a colloquial term used to describe a regular, average worker who typically has a physically demanding or low-paying job. It refers to someone who works hard to earn a living but may not have much job security or opportunities for advancement.
