crummy
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /krˈʌmi/
US
- /ˈkrəmi/
Description
- poor quality
- unpleasant
- run-down
- shabby
- disappointing
If something is crummy, it's not exactly great. Think of an old, beat-up car that barely runs—that's a crummy vehicle! It suggests something is in bad condition, unreliable, or just generally unpleasant. You might describe a cheap motel room as "crummy" if the sheets are stained and the TV doesn't work. The word has a bit of a playful, informal tone; you wouldn't use it to describe a serious disaster, but it's perfect for something disappointing. You can also say you feel crummy when you're a little sick, tired, or just not feeling well. It's often used to express mild annoyance or dissatisfaction: "We had a crummy day at the beach because it rained all afternoon."
The word crummy describes something that is of poor quality, in bad condition, or generally unpleasant. It's an informal and somewhat slangy term, suggesting something is rundown, shabby, or just not very good. While it doesn't necessarily mean broken beyond repair, it implies a noticeable lack of quality or care.
Historically, crummy is related to the word "crumb" and started with the idea of being dirty or covered in crumbs. Over time, it became a casual way to say something is shabby, low-quality, or not worth much.
You might describe an apartment as "crummy" if it's dirty, poorly maintained, and feels depressing. A crummy job could be one that's low-paying, boring, or has a terrible boss. It can also refer to weather: "The forecast called for a crummy, drizzly day."
Another very common use is about how you feel: "I feel crummy" often means you feel a bit sick, tired, or down.
It's important to note that crummy isn't usually used for things that are dangerous or truly tragic—it's more about everyday unpleasantness and low quality. It's often used with a touch of humor or resignation. "I was hoping for a fancy restaurant, but we ended up at a really crummy diner." So if something feels worn-down, disappointing, or just generally not up to par, crummy is the perfect word to describe it. It can even describe a person or their behavior: a crummy friend might be unreliable or unkind.
Examples
- 1
Travel
We ended up in a crummy hotel near the airport.
- 2
Photo quality
This camera takes crummy photos in low light.
- 3
Bad day
I had a crummy day at work and just wanted to go home.
- 4
Hurtful remark
That was a crummy thing to say to your brother.
- 5
Feeling sick
I felt crummy all morning, so I stayed home from class.
Phrase
feel crummy
feel slightly sick or generally bad
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- crummyadjective