Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Attitude
At′ti-tude
,Noun.
1.
(Paint. & Sculp.)
The posture, action, or disposition of a figure or a statue.
2.
The posture or position of a person or an animal, or the manner in which the parts of his body are disposed; position assumed or studied to serve a purpose;
as, a threatening
attitude
; an attitude
of entreaty.3.
Fig.: Position as indicating action, feeling, or mood;
as, in times of trouble let a nation preserve a firm
attitude
; one’s mental attitude
in respect to religion.The
attitude
of the country was rapidly changing. J. R. Green.
To strike an attitude
, to take an attitude for mere effect.
Both of these words describe the visible disposition of the limbs. Posture relates to their position merely; attitude refers to their fitness for some specific object. The object of an attitude is to set forth exhibit some internal feeling;
as,
It is, therefore, essentially and designedly expressive. Its object is the same with that of gesture; viz., to hold forth and represent. Posture has no such design. If we speak of posture in prayer, or the posture of devotion, it is only the natural disposition of the limbs, without any intention to show forth or exhibit. attitude
of wonder, of admiration, of grief, etc. 'T is business of a painter in his choice of
attitudes
(posituræ
) to foresee the effect and harmony of the lights and shadows. Dryden.
Never to keep the body in the same
posture
half an hour at a time. Bacon.
Webster 1828 Edition
Attitude
AT'TITUDE
,Noun.
ago.
1.
In painting and sculpture, the posture or action in which a figure or statue is placed; the gesture of a figure or statue; such a disposition of the parts as serves to express the action and sentiments of the person represented.2.
Posture; position of things or persons; as, in times of trouble let the prince or a nation preserve a firm attitude.