Fat vs. Stout What's the Difference? Fat and stout are both adjectives used to describe someone who is overweight or heavyset. However, there is a subtle difference in the connotations of these two words. "Fat" is often seen as a more negative and derogatory term, while "stout" can be used in a more neutral or even positive way. "Stout" can imply a sense of strength or robustness, whereas "fat" simply refers to excess body weight. Overall, both words describe someone who is larger in size ... Stout means having a strong, heavy, solid build, often implying robust health or strength. e.g., The stout walls of the fortress have withstood many sieges. STOUT meaning: 1 : thick and strong; 2 : having a large body that is wide with fat or muscles Stout can mean fat and solid-looking, strongly made, or determined and strong. It can also be a type of dark, bitter beer. Learn how to use stout in sentences and see translations in different languages.