moldy

word

Definition

Covered with or smelling of mold, a type of fungus that grows in damp or old places, usually making food, walls, or other things look decayed or dirty.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and mainly used for food, clothes, or buildings with visible mold. Often conveys something is old, dirty, and unpleasant. Don't confuse with 'musty' (stale, dusty smell) or 'rotten' (decayed but not necessarily moldy).

Example Sentences

The bread is moldy. Do not eat it.

basic

I found a moldy orange in the fridge.

basic

The cheese became moldy after a week.

basic

His gym bag smelled really moldy after he left it in the car all weekend.

natural

You should throw away anything that looks moldy in the pantry.

natural

That old book in the basement is so moldy, you can barely open it without sneezing.

natural