Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Seedy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒฑ
Add to dictionary

seedy

[หˆsiห.di ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

appearance

full of seeds, or covered in seeds

Synonyms

pulpy, seeded.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
seedy

Similar to the first entry, this word also refers to something associated with ill-repute or untidiness, and it often has a negative connotation.

  • The alley was dark and seedy.
  • He had a seedy appearance that made people uneasy.
seeded

Use this word to describe something that has had seeds removed or refers to something that contains seeds.

  • Make sure to use seeded grapes for the salad.
  • She bought a loaf of seeded bread.
pulpy

This word is often used to describe something that has a soft, moist, and mushy texture, like fruit or paper thatโ€™s become wet.

  • The orange juice was so fresh, it was almost pulpy.
  • The novel had a pulpy feel, as if it was an old, cheap paperback.

Examples of usage

  • a seedy tomato
  • a seedy watermelon
Context #2 | Adjective

character

shabby, run-down, or in bad condition

Synonyms

dilapidated, shabby, sleazy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
seedy

This word is used to describe a place or thing that seems run-down and possibly involved in illegal activities or morally questionable situations.

  • The motel looked seedy, with flickering neon lights and broken windows.
shabby

This word is often used to describe something that looks worn out, but not necessarily dangerous or involved in illegal activities.

  • Her coat was shabby from years of wear.
sleazy

This word has a strong negative connotation and is often used to describe a place or person that is disreputable or morally corrupt.

  • He went to a sleazy bar known for attracting unsavory characters.
dilapidated

This word is suitable for describing a building or vehicle that is in very poor condition due to age or lack of care.

  • The old barn was dilapidated, with its roof caving in and walls covered in ivy.

Examples of usage

  • a seedy hotel
  • a seedy neighborhood

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Context

  • In society, a 'seedy' part of town is often associated with crime or vice, which can stigmatize certain neighborhoods.
  • Film noir and crime novels frequently depict seedy environments to create a sense of danger or moral decay.
  • Fashion trends, such as grunge, have embraced 'seedy' aesthetics, showcasing a raw, unpolished style that defies mainstream standards.

Psychology

  • Environments deemed 'seedy' can trigger feelings of discomfort and insecurity, influencing people's behavior and choices.
  • Research suggests that growing up in 'seedy' areas can impact social development and mental health outcomes.
  • Humans have an inherent aversion to 'seedy' surroundings, often associating them with risk and unpredictability.

Literature

  • 'Seedy' settings in literature often act as a backdrop for character development, influencing actions and moral choices.
  • Classic works often portray 'seedy' neighborhoods as places of lost hopes, with characters striving for redemption amidst decay.
  • Contemporary authors use 'seedy' locales to critique society, exposing issues like poverty, crime, and human struggles.

Origin of 'seedy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'seedy' dates back to the 19th century, originally describing something that is full of seeds, like fruit.
  • It evolved to describe places that are grimy or not well-kept, reflecting the untidiness of scattered seeds.
  • The word may also relate to 'seediness' in the sense of low quality or questionable nature, as seeds can sometimes be undesirable.

The word 'seedy' originated in the 16th century, derived from the Middle English word 'sedie' meaning 'full of seeds'. Over time, the meaning expanded to include the sense of something being run-down or in bad condition, likely due to the association of seeds with decay or neglect.

See also: reseed, seed, seeded, seeding, seedling, seeds.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,776, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.