Grubby: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something or someone that is slightly dirty or unclean, but not necessarily in an extreme way. Often used informally.

• After playing outside all afternoon, his hands were grubby.
• The old shirt looked a bit grubby, but it was still wearable.

General term for something that is unclean or contaminated with dirt. Can be used in various contexts, from physical dirt to moral impurity.

• She needed to wash the dirty dishes.
• The politician was involved in dirty business deals.

Describes something that is covered with a layer of dirt or grime, often in a more intense and unpleasant way. It implies neglect or lack of cleaning.

• The windows of the abandoned house were grimy.
• His hands were grimy after working on the car engine.

Specifically used when something is covered in or mixed with mud. Often used to describe outdoor situations or after rainfall.

• They returned from the hike with muddy boots.
• The dog's paws were all muddy after playing in the garden.

Describes something or someone that is dirty, messy, or unclean, usually carrying a slightly negative connotation.

• The children came back from the playground all grubby from playing in the mud

Describes something done carelessly, lacking neatness or precision. It generally has a negative connotation.

• His homework was so sloppy that the teacher could hardly read it

Refers to a state of disorder or lack of neatness, and can be applied to both physical spaces and situations.

• Her room was always messy with clothes and books scattered everywhere

Describes a lack of order or neatness, which can refer to both physical spaces and personal appearance.

• His desk was untidy, with papers and pens strewn all over