Shabby: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'shabby' to describe something that looks old and worn out due to neglect. It can refer to clothes, places, or even people. It often suggests that something was once nice but has been poorly maintained.

• He wore a shabby coat that had clearly seen better days.
• The hotel was in a shabby part of town, with peeling paint and broken windows.

Refers to buildings, places, or areas that are in poor condition due to neglect. It can also describe someone who is extremely tired or exhausted.

• She lived in a run-down apartment that desperately needed repairs.
• He felt run-down after working long hours without a break.

Describing buildings or structures that are in a state of severe disrepair. Typically used for something that is falling apart due to age or neglect.

• The old house at the end of the street was completely dilapidated.
• They decided to restore the dilapidated barn rather than tearing it down.

Typically used to describe clothes or paper that are torn and in bad condition. It suggests that the item has been heavily used or abused.

• He wore a tattered shirt that was full of holes.
• She found an old, tattered book at the bottom of the drawer.

Used to describe fabric or clothing that is worn down so much that threads are showing. It suggests something very old and overused.

• His coat was threadbare from years of use.
• The carpet was threadbare in several spots due to heavy foot traffic.

Used to describe something that is in poor condition due to neglect or age. Often used for clothing, buildings, or furniture.

• The old house looked shabby after years of disrepair
• His shabby coat was full of holes

Used to describe something that does not meet acceptable quality or standards. Often used in professional or technical contexts.

• The substandard safety measures resulted in several accidents
• The food at the restaurant was substandard and disappointing

Used to describe something that is lower in quality or value compared to something else. Often used in comparison to a superior quality item.

• The materials used in this product are inferior to those used in the higher-end model
• His work was considered inferior by his colleagues

Used to describe something poorly made or done, often with a sense of dishonesty or lack of care. It has a negative connotation.

• The shoddy construction of the building led to many problems
• Customers complained about the shoddy craftsmanship of the furniture

Used to describe something that is low in price and often low in quality. It is commonly used for products that are poorly made or not durable.

• She bought a cheap pair of shoes that fell apart after a week
• The toy was made from cheap plastic