filthy

UK: ˈfɪlθi | US: ˈfɪlθi

Definition

  1. adj. extremely dirty or unpleasant

  2. adj. morally corrupt or obscene

  3. adj. (informal) very unpleasant or disagreeable

Structure
filth <dirt>y <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "filthy" originates from Old English fȳlþ ("filth"), derived from fūl ("foul"), combined with the suffix -y to form an adjective. The root fūl reflects a sense of decay or corruption, evolving into "filth" to describe physical dirt and later moral degradation. The suffix -y (from Old English -ig) turns nouns into adjectives, emphasizing a state or quality. Over time, "filthy" expanded from literal dirtiness to metaphorical uses (e.g., obscenity or extreme displeasure).

Examples

  1. The abandoned house was filthy, with layers of dust on every surface.

  2. He was fined for using filthy language in public.

  3. After the mud fight, the children returned home filthy.

  4. The politician’s filthy secrets were exposed by the media.

  5. I refuse to eat at that filthy restaurant again.