swarthy
Swarthy (adj) means having noticeably dark skin or a deep tan complexion. Example: “Years working outdoors had left him swarthy and weathered.”
How to use swarthy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsed to describe someone with dark or deeply tanned skin.
It's mostly used about complexion, not race in the technical sense — and can sound old-fashioned or loaded in modern writing, so use it carefully.
Word forms
swarthier comparative, swarthies plural, swarthiest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Years working outdoors had left him _____ and weathered.
Etymology
From an older English word "swarty," itself from "swart" meaning black, going back to Old English sweart ("black").
Related words
Rhymes for swarthy
See all rhymes for swarthy →Frequently asked questions
What does “swarthy” mean?
The word “swarthy” means having noticeably dark skin or a deep tan complexion. In plain terms, used to describe someone with dark or deeply tanned skin.
How do you pronounce “swarthy”?
“Swarthy” is pronounced SWAWR-thee (/ˈswɔɹði/ in IPA).
How do you use “swarthy” in a sentence?
Here is “swarthy” used in a sentence: “Years working outdoors had left him swarthy and weathered.”
What is the opposite of “swarthy”?
The opposite of “swarthy” — its antonyms — are fair and pale.
What part of speech is “swarthy”?
“Swarthy” is an adjective.
Where does the word “swarthy” come from?
The word “swarthy” comes from Old English. From an older English word "swarty," itself from "swart" meaning black, going back to Old English sweart ("black").