stuffy
word
Definition
Describes a place that feels unpleasant because there is not enough fresh air, or a nose that is blocked and difficult to breathe through.
Usage & Nuances
'Stuffy' is informal and often used to describe rooms, offices, or cars. For a blocked nose, 'stuffy nose' is the usual phrase. Different from 'crowded' (full of people) or 'smelly' (bad odor). Can also refer to someone who is formal and not relaxed, but this is less common.
Example Sentences
I have a stuffy nose because of my cold.
basic
Open the door—it's too stuffy in here!
basic
The meeting room gets really stuffy in the afternoon with so many people.
natural
When my allergies act up, my nose feels so stuffy I can hardly breathe.
natural
The classroom feels stuffy after the windows are closed.
basic
That fancy restaurant looked too stuffy for us, so we went somewhere more relaxed.
natural