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Shabbily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shabbily

[ˈʃæbɪli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

appearance, quality

The term 'shabbily' refers to something done in a manner that is shabby or worn out. It often describes a negative state of appearance or condition, typically indicating neglect or a lack of care. This term is frequently used to convey disdain for how something looks or is treated, suggesting that it does not meet the expected standards. It can apply to clothing, behavior, or even the manner in which tasks are completed.

Synonyms

carelessly, dismally, meagerly, poorly.

Examples of usage

  • He was dressed shabbily for the formal event.
  • The house was shabbily maintained over the years.
  • She spoke shabbily about her former colleagues.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shabbily dressed characters often signify social status or neglect, revealing emotional truths about their lives.
  • In many classic novels, a character who appears shabbily can symbolize failure or loss, providing a contrast to more affluent characters.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that shabbily dressed individuals are sometimes perceived as less competent or trustworthy based solely on their appearance.
  • People often associate a shabby look with poverty or neglect, which can trigger empathy or judgment.

Pop Culture

  • In popular films and television, shabbily dressed characters often evoke sympathy, leading viewers to connect with their struggles.
  • Fashion trends sometimes embrace a shabbily chic style, where worn-out or distressed clothing is considered trendy.

History

  • During the Great Depression, many individuals wore shabbily due to a lack of resources, leading to a cultural movement recognizing simplicity and resilience.
  • In earlier centuries, 'shabby gentility' referred to nobility who had fallen on hard times, illustrating the contrast between past wealth and present condition.

Origin of 'shabbily'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'shabby' meaning 'worn out' or 'shabby in appearance'.
  • It is believed to have roots in the word 'shab', which means 'to wear away' or 'to fade'.

The word 'shabbily' originates from the adjective 'shabby', which itself stems from the late 16th-century English term 'shabbe', referring to a worn-out or dilapidated condition. The word was likely derived from the concept of 'shabbiness', emphasizing a state of neglect and poor maintenance. Over time, the adverbial form 'shabbily' emerged to describe actions or states that lack care or quality. The use of 'shabby' has expanded to encapsulate not only physical appearances but also behavior that is considered dishonorable or inadequate. Through linguistic evolution, 'shabbily' gained currency in everyday language, often used in both formal and informal contexts to criticize standards of presentation or behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,745 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.