grimy
UK: ˈɡraɪmi | US: ˈɡraɪmi
adj. covered with or characterized by dirt; filthy
adj. morally corrupt or sordid
The word "grimy" originates from Middle English "grim," meaning dirt or soot, which itself traces back to Old English "grima" (mask or specter, later associated with darkness or filth). The suffix "-y" was added in the 16th century to form an adjective meaning "full of grime." Over time, "grimy" evolved to describe both literal dirtiness and metaphorical moral tarnish, reflecting its vivid imagery of ingrained filth.
The mechanic’s hands were grimy after hours of repairing the engine.
The abandoned factory had grimy windows covered in decades of dust.
She refused to sit on the grimy subway seat.
His reputation was grimy due to years of unethical dealings.
The children returned home with grimy faces after playing in the mud.