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Slimy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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slimy

[ˈslaɪmi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

texture

Covered with or resembling slime; having a slippery or viscous feel.

Synonyms

oozy, slippery, viscous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slimy

Duplicate word. Refer to the context and examples provided earlier.
slippery

Describes something smooth or wet that causes slipping and makes it difficult to stand or hold onto.

  • Be careful on the slippery floor.
  • The rocks near the waterfall were very slippery.
viscous

Refers to a thick, sticky consistency that flows slowly, often used in scientific or descriptive contexts without a negative connotation.

  • The viscous syrup poured slowly onto the pancakes.
  • The scientists studied the viscous lava.
oozy

Refers to something slowly oozing or dripping a viscous fluid, often indicating something messy or slightly unpleasant.

  • The oozy mud stuck to their boots after the rain.
  • He noticed an oozy liquid seeping from the broken pipe.

Examples of usage

  • The slimy seaweed made it difficult to walk on the rocks.
  • The slimy texture of the slug left a trail behind.
Context #2 | Adjective

behavior

Unpleasantly smooth and oily in a way that is dishonest or insincere.

Synonyms

deceitful, insincere, sleazy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slimy

Use to describe someone or something that feels unpleasantly slick or slippery, often used metaphorically to describe a person who is untrustworthy or sneaky.

  • The salesman seemed slimy and I didn't trust him.
  • The floor was slimy from all the algae.
insincere

Applicable when someone says or does something that is not genuine or heartfelt, often to please others or avoid conflict.

  • His compliment felt insincere and didn't boost my confidence.
  • She gave an insincere apology just to end the argument.
deceitful

Used to describe someone who is lying or dishonest, especially when the intention is to mislead others.

  • Her deceitful behavior eventually cost her all her friends.
  • He made a deceitful attempt to cover his tracks.
sleazy

Refers to someone or something that is morally degraded or corrupt, often with a connotation of being disreputable or cheap.

  • He works in a sleazy bar downtown.
  • The politician was involved in some sleazy deals.

Examples of usage

  • He gave her a slimy smile that made her uncomfortable.
  • The slimy politician's promises were never fulfilled.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, many sea creatures, like slugs and octopuses, have slimy skin that helps them navigate their aquatic environment.
  • Slime can serve as a protective mechanism in animals, keeping them moist or deterring predators due to its unpleasant texture.

Pop Culture

  • In monster movies and cartoons, slimy creatures are often portrayed as comical or spooky, influencing character design in media.
  • Popular children's toys, such as slime putty, highlight the fascination and fun associated with slimy textures.

Literature

  • Authors often use slimy imagery to evoke feelings of disgust or unease in characters, enhancing horror or mystery elements in stories.
  • Classic fairy tales sometimes feature slimy creatures, like witches or monsters, emphasizing their otherworldly and sinister nature.

Psychology

  • The feeling of slimy textures can trigger strong emotional reactions, such as disgust or discomfort, linked to evolutionary survival instincts.
  • Preferences for or against slimy things can indicate deeper psychological associations with cleanliness and safety.

Origin of 'slimy'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from Old English 'slīm,' meaning 'slime' or 'mucus.'
  • The use of 'slimy' dates back to the 18th century, primarily describing textures that are slick and moist.

The word 'slimy' originated from the Middle English 'slymy' which meant 'covered with slime'. The use of 'slimy' to describe something slippery or viscous dates back to the 14th century. Over time, the word also developed a negative connotation when used to describe behavior, indicating insincerity or deceitfulness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,571, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.