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Stuffed shirt
01
someone who considers themselves more important than others and often behaves in a very formal and old-fashioned way
What is the origin of the idiom "stuffed shirt" and when to use it?
The idiom "stuffed shirt" originated in the early 20th century and refers to a person who acts really serious, formal, and full of themselves. It's like picturing a person wearing a shirt that's stuffed with padding, making them seem stiff and inflexible. This phrase is used to talk about people who are too proper, always following strict rules, and thinking they're more important than they really are. It's a way to make fun of them and show that they don't have much personality or the ability to be easygoing.
Example
The politician's speeches were filled with empty promises and stuffed shirt rhetoric.
Don't be a stuffed shirt, loosen up and enjoy the party!
The boardroom was filled with stuffed shirts, all focused on maintaining a strict hierarchy.
She dismissed the stuffed shirts in the office, preferring a more relaxed and collaborative work environment.
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