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grubby
IPA:
Dictionary definition of grubby
Dirty, grimy, or unkempt in appearance.
"His grubby hands left marks all over the white wall."
Detailed meaning of grubby
It refers to objects, surfaces, or individuals that are marked by dirt, stains, or general untidiness. The term implies a lack of cleanliness or proper maintenance. Grubby items may have smudges, dirt buildup, or visible marks of use and neglect. It can also extend to a person's physical appearance, suggesting an unclean or disheveled state. Additionally, "grubby" can be used metaphorically to describe unethical or morally questionable behavior, as if the person or their actions are tainted or unsavory. Overall, the adjective "grubby" carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of care or attention to cleanliness, hygiene, or ethical standards.
Example sentences containing grubby
1. After playing outside, the kids returned with grubby hands and clothes.
2. The neglected old house had a grubby, dilapidated appearance.
3. He reluctantly touched the grubby doorknob of the abandoned factory.
4. The dog's paws left grubby prints all over the freshly cleaned floor.
5. She wiped away the grubby marks on the window with a sigh.
6. The restaurant's restroom was uncomfortably grubby and unsanitary.
History and etymology of grubby
The adjective 'grubby' has its origins in the Middle English word 'grubbig,' which meant 'dirty' or 'muddy.' It is thought to be related to the Middle Dutch word 'grubben,' which means 'to dig' or 'to root around.' The word 'grubby' carries the connotation of being dirty or grimy, often as a result of engaging in messy or untidy activities. Over time, it has come to describe things or people that appear unkempt or untidy in their overall appearance. The etymology of 'grubby' reflects its historical association with dirt and grime, making it an apt descriptor for things that are in need of cleaning or are not well-maintained in terms of cleanliness.
Further usage examples of grubby
1. His grubby sneakers tracked mud throughout the clean kitchen.
2. The toddler's grubby face was evidence of a day spent exploring.
3. The grubby street corner was in need of a thorough cleaning.
4. The mechanic emerged from under the car with grubby hands and overalls.
5. The grubby appearance of the alley made it seem unsafe to walk through.
6. The grubby little boy came inside with mud all over his clothes.
7. I found an old grubby book at the flea market.
8. Her apron was grubby after a day of baking.
9. The windows of the abandoned house were grubby and covered in dust.
10. The dog’s fur was grubby from rolling around in the dirt.
11. I need to wash my grubby sneakers after jogging through the muddy park.
12. The kitchen looked grubby, with unwashed dishes piled in the sink.
13. She picked up the grubby teddy bear from the attic.
14. My car is grubby after driving on the country roads.
15. The painter's grubby overalls were a testament to his hard work.
16. They had a grubby old map to guide them through the forest.
17. The homeless man's grubby appearance touched the hearts of the passersby.
18. His room was grubby, with clothes and papers scattered everywhere.
19. The grubby old couch was finally replaced with a new one.
20. After camping for three days, all of our clothes were grubby.
21. The grubby baseball cap had seen better days.
22. His grubby fingernails needed a good scrubbing.
23. The grubby carpet had lost all of its original color.
24. She managed to transform the grubby garden into a beautiful oasis.
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Cleanliness and Upkeep, Disgust and Aversion, Aesthetic and Appearance
dingy,disheveled,messy,shabby,soiled,squalid,unkempt,untidy
dirty,filthy,grimy,stained
Synonyms for grubby
Quiz categories containing grubby
filthy, clean, spotless, pristine
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