shabby
UK: ˈʃæbi | US: ˈʃæbi
adj. 1. (of objects) worn out or dilapidated from overuse or neglect.
adj. 2. (of behavior) unfair or dishonorable; mean-spirited.
adj. 3. (of appearance) dressed in old or poor-quality clothes.
The word "shabby" originated in the mid-17th century, derived from the obsolete noun "shab," meaning "scab" or "roughness," which itself traces back to Old English sceabb (related to "scab"). The suffix "-y" was added to form an adjective, originally implying "affected with scabs" or "rough." Over time, the meaning expanded metaphorically to describe anything worn, neglected, or mean in quality or behavior. The evolution reflects a vivid shift from physical decay to broader贬义 connotations.
The hotel room was shabby, with peeling wallpaper and broken furniture.
It was shabby of him to take credit for her work.
She felt embarrassed in her shabby coat at the elegant party.
The once-grand theater now looks shabby and forgotten.
Don’t treat the interns in such a shabby manner—they deserve respect.