strut

Everyday

1. To strut is to walk in a proud, stiff way, with your chest out and head up, to show off. tree →
2. A strut is a bar or rod that holds up or strengthens part of a structure, like a bridge, a roof or an aircraft wing. tree →
3. «Strut your stuff» (informal) means to show off what you can do, especially when dancing. tree →

In the lessons

In stories strutting shows that a character is proud or showing off, like a rooster. In design and technology, struts are bars in a frame; a strut pushes apart, while a tie pulls together. Phrases: «strut about/around», «strut your stuff».

Examples

• The rooster strutted across the farmyard. tree →
• He strutted into class wearing his new trainers. tree →
• The peacock strutted and spread its tail. tree →
• We used straws as struts to make our tower stronger. tree →
• The bridge is held up by steel struts. tree →
• The old plane had wooden struts between its wings. tree →
• Get on the dance floor and strut your stuff! tree →
• She strutted around after winning the race. tree →
• They said, "See how that fellow struts at the head of his little flock!" tree →

Note

Doubling the «t»: strutted, strutting. «Strut» as walking usually sounds a bit negative (too proud). Do not confuse with «stutter» (to repeat sounds when speaking).