Zaftig
What it means
Having a full, rounded figure regarded as attractive.
Reach for it when using a culturally marked body descriptor only when the person welcomes it
The zaftig portrait subject appears dignified and self-assured.
Words to choose between 6
| playful |
|
|---|---|
| everyday | |
| warm | |
| professional | |
| literary |
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playful
buxom
Fits when old-fashioned emphasis on a full bust is truly intended
Careful Buxom is gendered, sexualizing, and often unwelcome.
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everyday
shapely
Fits when proportion rather than size is the praise
Careful Shapely judges a body against an aesthetic standard.
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warm
curvaceous
Fits when pronounced curves are the intended compliment
Careful Curvaceous sexualizes shape and may be intrusive.
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professional
full-figured
Fits when neutral sizing or fashion description is needed
Careful Full-figured is broader and does not itself express attraction.
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literary
Rubenesque
Fits when an art-historical comparison is deliberate
Careful Rubenesque is culturally narrow and can sound euphemistic.
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literary
Fits when sensual fullness is explicitly relevant
Careful Voluptuous is strongly sexual and unsuitable in most public descriptions.
Opposites 3
- slender
- angular
- slight
Common phrases 3
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zaftig figure
The zaftig figure in the mural is painted with strength and ease.
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zaftig silhouette
A zaftig silhouette anchors the designer's evening collection.
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confidently zaftig
She described herself as confidently zaftig in the portrait notes.
Usage notes
Keep in mind
Zaftig comes through Yiddish and is an appearance judgment. Self-description is much safer than applying it unsolicited.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated