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Dicky: meaning, definitions and examples

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dicky

 

[ ˈdɪki ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

informal usage

The word 'dicky' is often used informally to describe something that is unreliable, faulty, or in poor condition. It can also refer to someone who is experiencing unease or discomfort, particularly in the context of physical health. In British English, it may also refer to something that is somewhat silly or foolish. Overall, the term carries a slightly humorous or colloquial tone.

Synonyms

dodgy, shaky, silly, unreliable

Examples of usage

  • My old car has a dicky engine.
  • He's been feeling a bit dicky lately.
  • The dicky chair made squeaking sounds every time I sat down.
Context #2 | Noun

British slang

In British slang, 'dicky' can also refer to the male genitalia, often used in a juvenile or humorous context. This usage is typically informal and may not be appropriate in all settings. It reflects a playful or cheeky attitude towards language and is often employed among friends or in light-hearted conversations.

Synonyms

penis, wang, willy

Examples of usage

  • He thinks he's so cool, showing off his dicky jokes.
  • The kids giggled, making dicky comments about the cartoon.
  • Don't be so dicky about it; it's just a joke.

Translations

Translations of the word "dicky" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dicky

🇮🇳 डिकी

🇩🇪 dicky

🇮🇩 dicky

🇺🇦 дизель

🇵🇱 dicky

🇯🇵 ディッキー

🇫🇷 dicky

🇪🇸 dicky

🇹🇷 dicky

🇰🇷 디키

🇸🇦 ديكي

🇨🇿 dicky

🇸🇰 dicky

🇨🇳 迪基

🇸🇮 dicky

🇮🇸 dicky

🇰🇿 dicky

🇬🇪 დიკი

🇦🇿 dicky

🇲🇽 dicky

Etymology

The term 'dicky' has its roots in the early 19th century, initially derived from the name 'Dick', which was often used as a diminutive or affectionate term for Richard. Over time, the word began to adopt various meanings, frequently associated with playfulness or silliness due to its informal nature. The adjectival usage of 'dicky' to imply something being faulty or unreliable likely arose as an extension of its playful connotation, suggesting a lack of seriousness or dependability. Additionally, the slang meaning relating to male genitalia likely evolved from the prevalent use of 'Dick' as a slang term for the same, reflecting the playful and sometimes crude humor found in British slang. This evolution illustrates how language can shift in meaning based on social contexts and cultural influences, making 'dicky' a versatile word in informal English.