adjective

sleazy

SLEE-zee

Sleazy (adjective) means Dishonest, corrupt, or morally low, often in a sordid or seedy way. Example: “The lawyer used sleazy tactics to intimidate witnesses.”

adjective

Dishonest, corrupt, or morally low, often in a sordid or seedy way.

"The lawyer used sleazy tactics to intimidate witnesses."

Tastelessly sexual or seedy in appearance.

"They avoided the sleazy bars near the docks."

How to use sleazy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes something or someone dishonest, seedy, or distastefully low-class, often with sexual overtones.

Common pairings

sleazy bar sleazy tactics sleazy salesman

Word forms

sleazier comparative, sleaziest superlative

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The lawyer used _____ tactics to intimidate witnesses.

Etymology

Of uncertain origin, possibly linked to "Silesia," a region once known for producing thin, low-quality cloth.

Rhymes for sleazy

lazy hazy crazy

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Frequently asked questions

What does “sleazy” mean?

The word “sleazy” means dishonest, corrupt, or morally low, often in a sordid or seedy way.

How do you pronounce “sleazy”?

“Sleazy” is pronounced SLEE-zee (/ˈsliː.zi/ in IPA).

How do you use “sleazy” in a sentence?

Here is “sleazy” used in a sentence: “The lawyer used sleazy tactics to intimidate witnesses.”

What part of speech is “sleazy”?

“Sleazy” is an adjective.

How many meanings does “sleazy” have?

“Sleazy” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: dishonest, corrupt, or morally low, often in a sordid or seedy way.