Washy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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washy

[ˈwɔːʃi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

descriptive quality

The term 'washy' is used to describe something that is watery, weak, or lacking in substance. It can refer to food that is overly diluted or a flavor that is mild and not pronounced. In a broader sense, it may also apply to colors that are pale or washed out. Overall, it conveys an impression of something that lacks depth or intensity.

Synonyms

faint, insipid, watery, weak.

Examples of usage

  • The soup was too washy for my taste.
  • Her painting looked washy compared to the vibrant artwork around it.
  • He found the lecture a bit washy and hard to engage with.

Translations

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Origin of 'washy'

The word 'washy' originates from the early 19th century, deriving from the word 'wash,' which refers to the act of cleaning with water. The suffix '-y' typically adds a quality or characteristic to the root word, thus 'washy' implies the qualities of being like wash — often in a diluted form. Initially, it found usage in culinary contexts to denote foods with excess water or lack of flavor. Over time, its application broadened to describe other contexts where something is perceived to be lacking in intensity or vibrancy, including visual arts and textual descriptions.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,339 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.