dirty

word

/ˈdɝti/
DUR-dee
/dˈɜːti/
DUR-tee

Definition

Covered with dust, mud, or something that is not clean; also used to describe things or jokes that are rude or inappropriate.

Usage & Nuances

'Dirty' is used for both physical mess (dirty clothes) and for things considered rude or inappropriate (dirty joke, dirty mind). For cleanliness, common with water, hands, shoes, or rooms. Calling someone 'dirty' can be insulting. 'Dirty' as a verb means to make something dirty, but is less common.

Example Sentences

My hands are dirty after playing outside.

basic

The floor is dirty. Please clean it.

basic

Don't put dirty clothes on the bed.

basic

He told a dirty joke that made everyone laugh.

natural

After hiking in the rain, my shoes were completely dirty.

natural

Don't listen to him, he always has a dirty mind.

natural