Dirtily: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe actions or conditions characterized by dirt or grime, generally informal.

• The mechanic worked dirtily, with oil and grease covering his hands
• She looked at her child who was playing dirtily in the mud

Describes something extremely dirty, often with a negative connotation, used for particularly gross or unhygienic conditions.

• The abandoned house was filthily kept, with trash and grime everywhere
• He hadn't cleaned his room in months, and it was filthily cluttered

Refers to actions or habits that lack cleanliness, often implying a breach of hygiene or sanitation. A more formal or clinical term.

• Living uncleanly can lead to serious health problems
• The kitchen was kept uncleanly, attracting pests

Specifically describes a surface or object covered with grime, suggesting a layer of dirt that is oily or sticky.

• The factory worker's clothes were grimily stained after a long day
• The windows were grimily covered, making it hard to see outside