Seedy
'siːdi
Definitions
2 meaningsAppearing disreputable, squalid, or run-down.
'siːdi
Suggesting a disreputable or run-down place or environment.
We decided not to stay in that seedy hotel.
💡 Simply: Imagine a place or area that looks a bit rough around the edges, maybe a little dirty or unsafe. It's not the kind of place you'd take your grandma!
👶 For kids: When something is 'seedy', it means it looks a little bit messy or scary, like a place that isn't very nice.
More Examples
The neighborhood had a seedy atmosphere.
He was warned to avoid the seedy part of town.
How It's Used
"The hotel had a seedy bar downstairs, filled with dubious characters."
"The detective investigated the seedy underbelly of the city."
Of a person: appearing morally suspect, untrustworthy, or of questionable character.
'siːdi
Suggesting a person is morally questionable or untrustworthy.
The man had a seedy reputation in the neighborhood.
💡 Simply: When someone gives you the feeling they might not be entirely honest or trustworthy. Like they might be hiding something.
👶 For kids: When a person looks like they might do something bad, they can be called 'seedy'.
More Examples
She gave him a seedy glance.
I didn't trust the seedy salesman's pitch.
How It's Used
"He had a seedy look about him that made me distrust him."
"The seedy character lurking in the alley was immediately suspicious."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From "seed", referring to the appearance of discarded seeds or the idea of something having a hidden, potentially undesirable origin. The term evolved to describe places or people that seemed disreputable or run-down.
The term 'seedy' has evolved from its agricultural roots, referring to the quality of seeds, to its modern meaning of referring to places or people.
Memory tip
Think of a place where seeds are discarded – dirty, unpleasant, and potentially harboring unwanted things.
Word Origin
"Relating to seeds or the presence of seeds."