slipshod

American  

[slip-shod] / ˈslɪpˌʃɒd /

adjective

1. careless, untidy, or slovenly.

   slipshod work.

   Synonyms:

   messy, lax, sloppy, loose

2. down-at-heel; seedy; shabby.

3. Archaic. wearing slippers or loose shoes, especially ones worn at the heel.

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slipshod British  

/ ˈslɪpˌʃɒd /

adjective

1. (of an action) negligent; careless

2. (of a person's appearance) slovenly; down-at-heel

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Other Word Forms

• slipshoddiness
  noun
• slipshodness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of slipshod

First recorded in 1570–80; slip ¹ + shod

Explanation

When someone does something in a slipshod manner, they do it in a way that's careless and sloppy — that isn't right. An easy way to remember the meaning of slipshod is to note that "shod" is part of "shoddy," another word for slipshod. (Alert: despite their similarity, slipshod isn't genetically related to shoddy.) Or you can use "slip" to clue yourself in. Originally, someone who looked slipshod was wearing worn-out slippers: they were shod in slippers.

Example Sentences

Slipshod electric guitars spin like a lazy kite around strident acoustic guitars and a buoyant rhythm section.

From Salon • May 26, 2025

Slipshod data-crunching doesn’t challenge the consensus in any meaningful way.

From Slate • Mar. 26, 2020

Slipshod defending and careering drama seem a banal consequence, though, compared to the scenes after the final whistle at Hampden.

From BBC • May 21, 2016

Slipshod tests had been conducted, the Committee reported, under the auspices of military men drafted from the Big Four rubber companies.

From Time Magazine Archive

Slipshod and stupid I worked it, dazed by negation and doubt.

From Ballads of a Cheechako by Service, Robert W. (Robert William)