Definition and meaning of English word "dirty"
dirty
/ˈdɜːrti/
Meaning
AdjectiveUnclean; covered with or containing unpleasant substances such as dirt or grime.
How to use
The term 'dirty' is often used in informal contexts to describe something or someone as unclean or impure. A grammatical nuance is that 'dirty' can be used as an adjective or an adverb, depending on the context. For example, 'The dirty room needs cleaning' (adjective) versus 'He plays dirty' (adverb).
🇬🇧 English
dirty
Example
The dirty dishes need to be washed.
The dirty floor needs to be cleaned.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- dirty job— dirty job
- dirty tricks— dirty tricks
- dirty laundry— dirty laundry
This concept in other languages
Frequency rank: #404 in English
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common English words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the English word "dirty" mean?▼
The English word "dirty" means "dirty" in English.
How do you pronounce the English word "dirty"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "dirty" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "dirty"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Covered in dirt or impurities." (which translates as "dirty").
More Adjectives words
Related reading
Duolingo vs Anki vs Apps: Comparing Language Learning Methods in 2026
An honest comparison of popular language learning approaches: gamified apps, SRS flashcards, textbooks, tutors, and immersion. Pros, cons, and who each is best for.
Read →MethodWhat Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →