shoddy

[shod-ee]

adjective

shoddier, shoddiest 

1. of poor quality or inferior workmanship.

   a shoddy bookcase.

2. intentionally rude or inconsiderate; shabby.

   shoddy behavior.

noun

plural

shoddies 

1. a fibrous material obtained by shredding unfelted rags or waste.

2. anything inferior, especially a handmade item or manufactured product.

shoddy

/ ˈʃɒdɪ /

adjective

1. imitating something of better quality

2. of poor quality; trashy

3. made of shoddy material

noun

1. a yarn or fabric made from wool waste or clippings

2. anything of inferior quality that is designed to simulate superior quality

Other Word Forms

• shoddily adverb
• shoddiness noun
• half-shoddy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of shoddy¹

First recorded in 1825–35; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of shoddy¹

C19: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

This tariff-dividend ploy suffers from fanciful math, shoddy economics and — not least — considerable legal obstacles.

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The memorial project is plagued by shoddy construction and, according to Orange County Supt.

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Some experts have expressed concern that could lead to a proliferation of shoddy programs.

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"The building itself is hardly fit for long-term habitation: sheet metal walls, shoddy construction, the look and feel of a temporary warehouse rather than a permanent facility," Santos wrote.

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He is not entitled to be repaid for shoddy workmanship.

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Related Words

• inferior 
• run down 
• shabby 
• shameful