blowsy
Definition
Adjective: 1. Untidy, coarse, or slovenly in appearance, especially of a woman: Describes a person, typically a woman, who is messy, unkempt, or has a rough, red-faced look, often suggesting a lack of care or refinement.
Usage and Examples
The adjective blowsy is used to describe a person's appearance. It often carries a negative or disapproving tone. * The blowsy woman at the market had her hair in disarray and her apron stained. * After the long, hot festival, her makeup had run, leaving her looking rather blowsy. * The character was portrayed as a blowsy, good-natured tavern keeper.
Advanced Usage and Nuance
- Connotation: The term blowsy is often considered dated and can be offensive, as it is frequently and pejoratively applied to women. It implies a lack of neatness and can suggest coarseness or vulgarity.
- Typical Associations: It is commonly associated with a red, flushed complexion, untidy hair, and careless or overly showy dress.
Variants and Related Words
- Blowzy: An alternative spelling of blowsy.
- Slatternly (adj.): Having the characteristics of a slattern; untidy and dirty.
- Frowzy (adj.): Scruffy, unkempt, and dingy in appearance.
Synonyms
- Slovenly
- Untidy
- Unkempt
- Frowzy
- Disheveled
- Bedraggled
Antonyms
- Neat
- Tidy
- Prim
- Well-groomed
- Elegant
Adjective
-
characteristic of or befitting a slut or slattern; used especially of women
