sketchy
UK: ˈsketʃi | US: ˈsketʃi
adj. lacking detail or clarity; vague or incomplete
adj. unreliable or suspicious in quality or character
adj. hastily done; rough or unfinished
sketchy = sketch<rough drawing> + y<adjective suffix>
- sketch: Derived from Dutch schets or Italian schizzo, meaning "a rough draft or outline." The root implies something incomplete or hastily made.
- y: A common English suffix forming adjectives, often indicating "characterized by" or "resembling."
Etymology Origin:
The word sketchy emerged in the early 19th century, combining sketch (a quick, unfinished drawing) with the adjectival suffix -y. Originally, it described things that were loosely outlined or lacking detail (like a sketch). Over time, it evolved to describe people or situations that seem untrustworthy or incomplete—akin to a rough draft that might hide flaws.
The witness gave a sketchy description of the suspect.
I avoid that café; their hygiene standards seem sketchy.
His explanation was too sketchy to be convincing.
She drew a sketchy map to guide us to the hidden trail.
The deal felt sketchy, so I decided not to invest.