blowsy

or blowz·y

[ blou-zee ]

adjective

, blows·i·er, blows·i·est

1. having a coarse, ruddy complexion.
2. disheveled in appearance; unkempt.

blowsy

/ ˈblaʊzɪ /

adjective

1. (esp of a woman) untidy in appearance; slovenly or sluttish
2. (of a woman) ruddy in complexion; red-faced

Derived Forms

• ˈblowsiness, noun
• ˈblowsily, adverb

Other Words From

• blowsi·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of blowsy¹

First recorded in 1760–70; obsolete blowze “wench” (of uncertain origin) + -y ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of blowsy¹

C18: from dialect blowze beggar girl, of unknown origin

Example Sentences

After racking his imagination, it occurred to him to bribe the blowsy waiting-maid with gold.

From Project Gutenberg

The loveliness of the woods in March is not, assuredly, of this blowsy rustic type.

From Project Gutenberg

Her cheeks were like the heart of a blush rose; she never turned very red when she ran or skipped, and never looked blowsy.

From Project Gutenberg

As if I would have given her any money, the impudent, blowsy thing!

From Project Gutenberg

Before him stood a blowsy but not altogether unprepossessing woman of middle years.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• antiquated
• dingy
• drab
• frumpy
• run down
• shabby
• unkempt