Shabby Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shabby
[หสรฆbi ]
Definitions
appearance
Worn or faded from use or wear; showing signs of being worn-out or neglected.
Synonyms
dilapidated, run-down, tattered, threadbare.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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shabby |
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.
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run-down |
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.
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dilapidated |
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.
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tattered |
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.
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threadbare |
Used to describe fabric or clothing that is worn down so much that threads are showing. It suggests something very old and overused.
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Examples of usage
- The shabby old couch had seen better days.
- His shabby clothes made him stand out in the crowd.
quality
Of poor quality or inferior workmanship.
Synonyms
cheap, inferior, shoddy, substandard.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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shabby |
Used to describe something that is in poor condition due to neglect or age. Often used for clothing, buildings, or furniture.
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substandard |
Used to describe something that does not meet acceptable quality or standards. Often used in professional or technical contexts.
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inferior |
Used to describe something that is lower in quality or value compared to something else. Often used in comparison to a superior quality item.
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shoddy |
Used to describe something poorly made or done, often with a sense of dishonesty or lack of care. It has a negative connotation.
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cheap |
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.
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Examples of usage
- She complained about the shabby service at the restaurant.
- The product had a shabby finish and was returned to the store.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Dirty or worn-out appearances can affect mood and self-esteem, often leading to feelings of neglect.
- People often project feelings of poverty or hard times when they see shabby clothing or environments.
- Thereโs a psychological effect known as the 'broken windows theory,' suggesting that visible signs of disorder can lead to further breakdown in community standards.
Art
- In visual arts, the concept of 'shabbiness' challenges traditional standards of beauty, embracing imperfection and wear.
- Some artists use repurposed shabby materials in their work, highlighting sustainability and creativity.
- Shabby chic is a popular design style that combines old, often worn decor with modern aesthetics for a cozy feel.
Cultural Representation
- Literature and films often use 'shabby' settings to evoke a sense of nostalgia or highlight social issues.
- The portrayal of shabby environments in storytelling can signify struggle or resilience in characters.
- Fashion trends have embraced 'shabby' styles, where distressed clothing are deliberately designed to evoke a worn look.
Pop Culture
- Shabby chic, a popular interior design movement, promotes vintage and reused items, celebrated for their character.
- The term has been humorously used in music and media, often to describe characters who are down on their luck.
- TV shows often depict shabby homes to emphasize the financial struggles of characters, making their lives relatable.
Origin of 'shabby'
Main points about word origin
- The word originated from the Middle English term 'shabbe,' meaning 'rag' or 'tattered cloth.'
- It is related to the word 'shab,' which in Old Norse referred to 'a piece of cloth or rag.'
- The transition to modern usage reflects the decline in the quality of materials over time.
The word 'shabby' originated in the late 17th century from the French word 'chabot', which meant a species of flatfish, and later evolved to mean 'worn-out' or 'inferior'. Over the years, 'shabby' has come to be associated with something that is worn or of poor quality.