adjective
dingy
DIN-jee/ˈdɪndʒi/
Dull and dirty-looking.
The dingy armchair has faded fabric and grimy, darkened armrests.
Etymology
Its origin is uncertain, though it may be related to dung. The early meaning “dirty, foul” developed through grime-darkened or tarnished appearance into the broader sense of shabbiness.
In context
The dark and dingy forest floor is a world in its own right.
More examples
- A fresh coat of paint brightens the dingy hallway.
- His white sneakers look dingy after weeks of daily wear.
- These towels look dingier after every wash.
Forms
dingy · dingier · dingiest
dinginess noun — The quality of looking dull and dirty.
Similar words
- grimy
- Suggests a noticeable layer of dirt on a surface.
- shabby
- Emphasizes wear and poor condition rather than dirt or dullness.
- drab
- Emphasizes dull color or appearance, not necessarily visible dirt.