1. in a rigid or inflexible manner; without bending easily
2. in a formal or unfriendly manner; without warmth or ease
3. with difficulty in moving; in a way that shows pain or discomfort

Examples

• The old door opened stiffly after years of disuse.
• She walked stiffly after sitting for hours.
• He nodded stiffly and refused to shake hands.
• The cardboard bent stiffly under pressure.
• The butler bowed stiffly to the guests.
• Her joints moved stiffly in the cold weather.
• The new shoes made him walk stiffly.