dicky
word
Definition
"Dicky" is a British English informal word describing something that is not working well, weak, or unreliable. It can refer to physical things or sometimes to a person's health.
Usage & Nuances
"Dicky" is informal and mainly British; rarely used in American English. Commonly heard in phrases like "a dicky knee" (a bad knee) or "the car's a bit dicky" (the car's unreliable). Not used in formal contexts. Can mildly imply something is almost broken, but not useless yet.
Example Sentences
My old bike is a bit dicky and often makes strange noises.
basic
He has a dicky heart, so he needs to be careful.
basic
The chair looks dicky, so don’t sit on it.
basic
Sorry the lift’s out again — it’s always a bit dicky in winter.
natural
I’ve had a dicky stomach all week and can’t eat much.
natural
The radio’s a bit dicky, but sometimes it still works if you hit it.
natural