stick in the mud
Meaning
A person who is unwilling to change, try new things, or be adventurous; dull or old-fashioned.
Origin
From the literal image of a stick stuck in mud β immovable β used metaphorically since the 19th century to describe someone unwilling to move or change.
Notes
Negative and mildly pejorative; often used informally to criticize reluctance to change. Avoid in formal contexts.
Examples
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Don't be a stick in the mudβcome to the party with us tonight.
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My dad's such a stick in the mud when it comes to technology.
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We need new ideas; we can't have managers who are sticks in the mud.
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She used to travel a lot, but now she's become a bit of a stick in the mud.
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Stop being a stick in the mud and try sushi for once.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically a noun phrase: 'a stick in the mud' or 'he's a stick in the mud'. When used attributively, hyphenate: 'stick-in-the-mud attitude'. Plural: 'sticks in the mud' or 'sticks-in-the-mud'. Not a verb.
Synonyms
- conservative
- old-fashioned
- stuck in one's ways
- square
- set in one's ways
Antonyms
- adventurous
- open-minded
- flexible
- progressive
- innovative