dingy
IPA
Definition of 'dingy'
Dirty, darkened, or discolored in a way that gives it a dull and unclean appearance.
"The basement was dark and dingy, with cobwebs in every corner."
Detailed Meaning of 'dingy'
When something is characterized as dingy, it implies a lack of cleanliness or upkeep, often resulting in a faded or grimy look. This term can apply to various contexts, such as a dingy room with stained walls and dusty furniture, a dingy piece of clothing that has lost its original color and vibrancy, or a dingy alleyway that appears uninviting due to neglect. "Dingy" underscores the idea of something being shabby and unclean, often evoking a sense of drabness, neglect, or a need for thorough cleaning or renovation.
Examples of 'dingy' in a Sentence
1. The room was dingy and poorly lit, making it unwelcoming to visitors.
2. He wore a dingy old jacket that had clearly seen better days.
3. The dingy alleyway was littered with trash and graffiti-covered walls.
4. She tried to brighten up the dingy apartment with colorful curtains and plants.
5. The pages of the old book were dingy and yellowed with age.
6. The laundromat was dingy, but it was the only one in the neighborhood.
Origins & Etymology of 'dingy'
The adjective 'dingy' has its etymological origins somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have evolved from the word 'ding,' which appeared in the English language around the 17th century. 'Ding' referred to a dark spot or stain, often the result of soiling or smudging. Over time, 'dingy' came to describe something as dirty, darkened, or discolored in a way that gives it a dull and unclean appearance. It implies a lack of brightness or cleanliness and is often used to depict spaces, objects, or surfaces that have become tarnished or grimy. 'Dingy' suggests a sense of neglect or poor maintenance, making it a useful word for describing spaces or items that are in need of cleaning or refurbishment.
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