dingy
word
Definition
Dirty, dull, or not bright in color or appearance. Often used to describe places or things that seem neglected, old, or not well cared for.
Usage & Nuances
'Dingy' is mostly negative and informal. Common with rooms, clothing, or fabrics ('a dingy shirt', 'a dingy hallway'). It emphasizes looking dirty or faded from age or neglect, not just covered in dust. Not to be confused with 'dirty' (simply unclean) or 'gloomy' (dark and sad mood).
Example Sentences
His shirt looked dingy after working all day.
basic
We cleaned the dingy windows until they sparkled.
basic
The dingy hallway made the whole building feel dark.
basic
This place feels a bit too dingy for a nice dinner.
natural
Even after washing, my socks still look dingy.
natural
The hotel room was small and pretty dingy, so we decided to leave.
natural