stud
stud
stəd
stēd
/stˈʌd/

Definition & Meaning of "stud"in English

Stud
01

a small piece of jewelry with a short metal post that is pierced into a part of the body

stud definition and meaning
Grammatical Information
animacy status
inanimate
Composition
Simple
countable
plural form
studs

What is a "stud"?

A stud is a small decorative piece that is affixed to a larger piece of jewelry. It is typically made of metal and may be adorned with gemstones or other decorative elements. Studs can be found on a variety of jewelry pieces, such as earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and even belts. Studs may serve a purely decorative function, adding a touch of elegance or sparkle to a piece, or they may have a functional purpose, such as securing a gemstone in place. Studs can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, from simple and understated to bold and eye-catching. They are a versatile element of jewelry design and can add interest and dimension to any piece.

Examples
She wore a sparkling diamond stud in her earlobe, adding an elegant touch to her outfit.
02

a sexually attractive man who has many sexual partners

Examples
He was known as the campus stud because of his good looks and charisma.
03

a male animal, often a horse, that is kept for breeding purposes

04

poker in which each player receives hole cards and the remainder are dealt face up; bets are placed after each card is dealt

05

an upright in house framing

06

a masculine queer woman, especially within African-American or Latinx communities

Slang

What is the origin of the term "stud" and how is it used?

Stud is a slang term that appeared in mid-20th-century English, particularly within African-American and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities, to describe a masculine queer woman. The word comes from the broader English use of stud for a strong, virile male or a breeding animal, and it was applied metaphorically to women who displayed traditionally masculine traits, confidence, or sexual assertiveness. Historically, it could be neutral or positive within queer communities, signaling pride and self-assurance, though outside those communities it could sometimes be misunderstood. Today it remains widely used and generally empowering within the cultural contexts where it originated.

Examples
That stud wore a crisp button-up and sneakers with confidence.
to stud
01

scatter or intersperse like dots or studs

Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
action verb
regular
present tense
stud
3rd person singular
studs
present participle
studding
past simple
studded
past participle
studded
02

provide with or construct with studs

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