for a stiff like that

Question

I can't believe Trina left you for a stiff like that. The only punch that guy ever threw was in a glass.

Hi,
Does "stiff" in the above refer to a "bum" or a 'drunkard?"
Besides, what does the bolded line mean? Thanks.

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,
I can't believe Trina left you for a stiff like that. The only punch that guy ever threw was in a glass.

Does "stiff" in the above refer to a "***" or a 'drunkard?" 'Stiff' is one of many very general and derogatory ways of referring to a person. Other words, for example, are 'jerk', 'bozo'. In this case, perhaps the speaker does indeed refer to drinking, because of the reference to alcohol in the next sentence.

Besides, what does the bolded line mean?

'Punch' can mean 'a hit with a fist' or a certain kind of mixed drink, which is often alcoholic.
'To throw a punch' is a common idiom meaning 'to try to hit someone with your fist'. Or it could mean throwing the contents of your glass of punch at someone. In other words, the speaker is making a little joke by referring to both meanings. The suggestion is that the person being spoken of is a drinker of alcohol.

Best wishes, Clive

for a stiff like that

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