stick2
• verb (past and past part. stuck) 1 insert or push (something pointed) into or through something. 2 (stick in/into/through) be or remain fixed with its point embedded in. 3 stab or pierce with a sharp object. 4 protrude or extend in a certain direction. 5 informal put somewhere in a quick or careless way. 6 adhere or cause to adhere. 7 (be stuck) be fixed in a particular position or unable to move or be moved. 8 (be stuck) be unable to progress with a task or find the answer or solution. 9 Brit. informal accept; tolerate; endure: I can’t stick Geoff. — PHRASES be stuck for be at a loss for or in need of. be stuck on informal be infatuated with. be stuck with informal be unable to get rid of or escape from. get stuck in (or into) Brit. informal start doing something with determination. stick around informal remain in or near a place. stick at informal persevere with. stick by continue to support or be loyal to. stick in one’s throat (or craw) be difficult or impossible to accept. stick it out informal put up with or persevere with something difficult or disagreeable. stick one’s neck out informal risk criticism or anger by acting or speaking boldly. stick out be extremely noticeable. stick out for refuse to accept less than. stick to continue or confine oneself to doing, using, or practising. stick together informal remain united or mutually loyal. stick up informal, chiefly N. Amer. rob at gunpoint. stick up for support or defend. stick with informal persevere or continue with. — ORIGIN Old English.
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