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What does ‘stubby holder’ mean?

Aussie slang explained in plain English, with examples you can listen to.

stubby holder

noun · casual

A foam holder that keeps a can or bottle of drink cold.

How Aussies use it

  • Grab a stubby holder from the esky.
  • He collects stubby holders from every town he visits.

How to pronounce ‘stubby holder’

Say it like this: STUB-ee HOHL-der

‘stubby holder’ in a conversation

Host: Grab a stubby holder, they're in the drawer.

Guest: Ha, this one says 'Woop Woop Fishing Club'.

Good to know

A 'stubby' is a small bottle of beer. Also spelled 'stubbie holder'.

Can I say ‘stubby holder’ at work?

With workmates, yes. 'stubby holder' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.

A common mistake

A 'stubby' is a small bottle of beer. A 'stubby holder' (or 'stubbie cooler') keeps it cold.

Saying it more formally

In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use drink cooler sleeve instead.

Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.

Quick check

What does ‘stubby holder’ mean?

  1. Bring your own. Usually means you can bring your own drinks to a restaurant or party.
  2. Genuinely Australian; loyal and honest.
  3. A foam holder that keeps a can or bottle of drink cold.
Show the answer

C. A foam holder that keeps a can or bottle of drink cold.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'stubby holder' mean in Australia?

A foam holder that keeps a can or bottle of drink cold. A 'stubby' is a small bottle of beer. Also spelled 'stubbie holder'.

Can I say 'stubby holder' at work?

With workmates, yes. 'stubby holder' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.

How do you pronounce 'stubby holder'?

Say it like this: STUB-ee HOHL-der. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.

More Aussie words

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