Literal Meaning:
* The drought caused stunted growth in the cornfield, leaving the plants small and weak.
* His childhood illness left him with stunted growth, making him much shorter than his peers.
Figurative Meaning:
* The lack of funding has stunted the project's progress, preventing it from reaching its full potential.
* The constant criticism stunted her creativity, making her afraid to express herself freely.
* His emotional development was stunted by the trauma he experienced as a child.
Note: "Stunted" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting something is limited or underdeveloped.