wally

American  

[wey-lee] / ˈweɪ li /

adjective

Scot.

1. fine; splendid.

2. strong.

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wally ¹ British  

/ ˈweɪlɪ /

adjective

1. fine, pleasing, or splendid

2. robust or strong

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wally ² British  

/ ˈwælɪ /

adjective

1. made of china

   a wally dug

   a wally vase

2. lined with ceramic tiles

   a wally close

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wally ³ British  

/ ˈwɒlɪ /

noun

1. slang a stupid person

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Etymology

Origin of wally

First recorded in 1490–1500; wale ² + -y ¹

Example Sentences

You look a total wally if you dance too early, but after one crucial song tips the disco over, you look a sad saddo if you don’t.

From Literature

Years later, when I was working as a trolley wally in a supermarket, I tackled the boredom by talking to the customers in as many different accents as I could manage.

From The Guardian

“No, I’m a total wally at home. I’m the fourth kid.”

From The Guardian

"I was like, 'You silly, naive wally!' Never wish that on yourself. It's unbearable."

From BBC

Alan, who gives his age as 55, is not quite the brash, chirpy young wally you can find in video clips on the Internet.

From New York Times