shabby
Translation
shabby, worn-out, threadbare, mean
Examples
He wore a shabby old coat.
He wore a shabby old coat.
They live in a shabby apartment.
They live in a shabby flat.
That was a shabby way to treat him.
That was a shabby way to treat him.
Grammar Patterns
((shabby)) ((noun)) shabby (noun) He wore a shabby old coat.
((a shabby way)) ((to do sth.)) a mean way to do something That was a shabby way to treat him.
Similar Words
Synonyms: run-down, dilapidated, threadbare; Antonyms: new, smart, pristine
Etymology
Possibly from Old English 'sceabb' (scab), referring to a rough surface.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'shabby shack' that is falling apart. The alliteration helps to remember the meaning of being in poor condition.