adjective
nasty
Impressively skillful or powerful, in slang.
The commentator calls the pitch nasty because it is so hard to hit.
Etymology
The ordinary negative adjective is reversed in slang praise. A performance can be called nasty when its power or skill seems exceptionally formidable.
More examples
- Her nasty crossover left the defender behind.
- The review praised the guitarist's nasty solo.
- Fans cheered his nastiest breaking ball.
Forms
nasty · nastier · nastiest
Similar words
- wicked
- Another slang compliment for exceptional skill or force.
- impressive
- The neutral approving description.