What does stature mean?
Stature is a formal noun that can describe a person’s height or physical build, as in a reference to someone of considerable stature. It also has a widely used figurative meaning: importance, dignity, influence, or the respect and significance attached to a person, institution, or achievement. A person may possess stature because of their commanding presence, while a policy or organization may acquire stature through its influence and reputation. The word often conveys a sense of distinction or authority and is more evocative than the neutral word “height.” In figurative contexts, it implies more than mere popularity or success, suggesting that the subject is regarded as important or impressive. Stature is especially common in journalism, formal writing, and discussions of public figures, institutions, and cultural achievements.
A person’s height or physical build.
"He was of tall stature and moved with surprising agility."
The literal sense is formal and often suggests that height or physical presence is notable.
Importance, dignity, influence, or the respect and significance attached to someone or something.
"The judge’s stature in the legal community was unquestioned."
This figurative sense is especially common in formal and journalistic contexts.
The plural is used mainly for different people’s physical statures or for multiple entities possessing figurative importance or significance.
"The novel examines the contrasting statures of its two central figures."
From Latin statura, meaning “height,” stature now measures more than the body: it can describe the impressive scale or importance of a person, institution, or achievement.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stature come from?
Stature entered English in the late Middle English period from Old French stature, which was borrowed from Latin statura, meaning “height” or “size.” Latin statura was derived from stare, “to stand,” reflecting the idea of a person’s upright height or physical form. The same Latin root also underlies words including statue, status, and statute, although their modern meanings developed along different lines.
Related word forms
How stature is actually used
In its literal sense, stature is a formal word for height or physical presence and is often used when a person's build is notable. In its figurative sense, it emphasizes importance, authority, or lasting significance.
Easily confused with stature
Stature refers primarily to height or physical presence, whereas status refers to social position, rank, or standing.
Stature is a noun meaning height or importance; stature is not a standard spelling of a verb form in this entry.