Definition

Adjective: 1. Affected with mange; having the skin disease mange, which causes hair loss, itching, and scabs in animals. 2. (Figurative) Shabby, worn-out, or squalid in appearance; resembling something affected by mange. Often used to describe objects or places that are dirty, neglected, or in poor condition.

Usage

The adjective "mangy" is used to describe the physical condition of an animal suffering from mange. It is more commonly used in its figurative sense to criticize the poor, unkempt, or dilapidated state of a person, object, or place. It carries a negative and often contemptuous connotation.

Examples

• Literal (Animal Health):
  • The mangy dog scratched itself constantly.
  • They took the mangy stray cat to the veterinarian for treatment.
• Figurative (Condition/Appearance):
  • He threw the mangy old rug into the dumpster.
  • The villain in the story lived in a mangy little apartment above the shop.
  • Don't bring that mangy old blanket inside; it's full of dust.

Advanced Usage

• "mangy-looking": A compound adjective emphasizing the shabby appearance.
  • The mangy-looking sofa was left on the curb.

Variants and Related Words

• Mange (noun): The skin disease itself, caused by parasitic mites.
  • The fox was treated for mange.
• Mangily (adverb): In a mangy manner.
  • The fur hung mangily from its skin.

Synonyms

• Scabby: Covered with scabs (closer to the literal meaning).
• Shabby: In poor condition through long use or lack of care.
• Scruffy: Untidy and in poor condition.
• Squalid: Extremely dirty and unpleasant, especially from poverty or neglect.
• Tattered: Old and torn; in ragged condition.

Antonyms

• Healthy: In good health (for the literal meaning).
• Pristine: In its original condition; clean and fresh.
• Immaculate: Perfectly clean, neat, or tidy.
• Well-kept: Maintained in good condition.

Adjective

1. having many worn or threadbare spots in the nap
   • a mangy carpet
   • a mangy old fur coat