Definitions

shoddy

[shod-ee] / ˈʃɒd i /

ADJECTIVE

in bad shape

Synonyms

STRONGEST

inferior run down shabby shameful

STRONG

base common gaudy junky makeshift mean plastic poor sad

WEAK

broken-down cheap cheesy dilapidated dingy discreditable disgraceful dishonorable disreputable ignominious inglorious not up to snuff paltry pretentious scruffy second-rate seedy shady sleazy slipshod tacky tawdry trashy unrespectable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

good respectable

STRONG

noble refined sophisticated superior

WEAK

fine nice

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When he finally buys a seemingly more respectable house, it turns out to be shoddy and overpriced.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

The Angels’ shoddy defense exacerbated the scoring spree.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

Experts raised concerns about shoddy construction and signs of erosion.

From Salon • May 25, 2026

From a market perspective, they help reveal shoddy management practices and even fraud.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

“In all my years as a guardian, I have never seen such shoddy social work! ”

From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter

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