tidy
Tidy (adj) means Neatly arranged; not messy or cluttered. Example: “She keeps her desk perfectly tidy.”
How to use tidy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNeat and well-organized, or, informally, a decent-sized amount (especially of money).
Word forms
tidier comparative, tidied past tense, tidies plural, tidies singular, tidiest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She keeps her desk perfectly _____.
Etymology
From Middle English tidy, originally meaning "timely" or "seasonable," from "tide" (time) plus "-y." The meaning shifted over centuries from "in good time" to "neat and orderly."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for tidy
See all rhymes for tidy →Frequently asked questions
What does “tidy” mean?
The word “tidy” means neatly arranged; not messy or cluttered. In plain terms, neat and well-organized, or, informally, a decent-sized amount (especially of money).
How do you pronounce “tidy”?
“Tidy” is pronounced TEYE-dee (/ˈtaɪ.di/ in IPA).
How do you use “tidy” in a sentence?
Here is “tidy” used in a sentence: “She keeps her desk perfectly tidy.”
What is another word for “tidy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “tidy” include orderly, presentable, spick and span, clean, seasonable and fit.
What is the opposite of “tidy”?
The opposite of “tidy” — its antonyms — are messy, untidy and slipshod.
What part of speech is “tidy”?
Depending on how it is used, “tidy” can be an adjective and a verb.
Where does the word “tidy” come from?
The word “tidy” comes from Middle English. From Middle English tidy, originally meaning "timely" or "seasonable," from "tide" (time) plus "-y." The meaning shifted over centuries from "in good time" to "neat and orderly.".
Is “tidy” a common word?
“Tidy” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.