dowdy
What does "dowdy" mean?
"Dowdy" describes someone or something that is unfashionable, dull, or lacking in style. The mental image is of someone wearing drab, shapeless, or outdated clothing that makes them look older or less vibrant than they actually are. It is often used to describe clothes, furniture, or interior decor that feels dreary, heavy, or uninspired. While it isn't necessarily a harsh insult, it carries a sense of neglect or an absence of modern flair. You might use it to describe a dusty, old-fashioned room or a poorly fitted outfit.
"dowdy" in conversation
Shopping for a dress
What do you think of this gray dress?
What do you think of this gray dress?
Honestly? It looks a bit dowdy on you.
Honestly? It looks a bit dowdy on you.
Yeah, you're right. It swallows me up.
Yeah, you're right. It swallows me up.
Used to describe how a piece of clothing makes a person look.
Redecorating a hotel room
The guests are complaining about the decor.
The guests are complaining about the decor.
I see why. The floral patterns are quite dowdy.
I see why. The floral patterns are quite dowdy.
We definitely need an update.
We definitely need an update.
Used to critique an outdated aesthetic.
"dowdy" in a sentence
She wore a dowdy brown coat.
She wore a dowdy brown coat.
The hotel lobby felt dowdy and neglected.
The hotel lobby felt dowdy and neglected.
He shed his dowdy image for a sharp, modern suit.
He shed his dowdy image for a sharp, modern suit.
