What does pecky mean?
Pecky is a chiefly British informal adjective for something covered or marked with small spots or flecks. Its most familiar use describes mud or dirt scattered across clothing, shoes, a floor, or an animal's coat, making it a vivid alternative to saying that something is dirty or speckled. It can also describe naturally mottled coloring, especially on a bird or other animal. The word has an old-fashioned, conversational quality and is more colorful than formal terms such as spotted or flecked. In ordinary British usage, it conveys a slightly humorous impression: something once clean has become visibly marked, often by a mishap involving mud. The expression “looking pecky” is especially common, while “peckish” is a separate word meaning slightly hungry and should not be confused with it.
adjectiveCovered or marked with small spots or flecks, especially of dirt or mud; speckled.
- Covered or marked with small spots or flecks, especially of mud or dirt.
- Spotted or speckled in appearance.
"After crossing the muddy field, the dog returned looking thoroughly pecky."
"The children came indoors with their shoes and stockings thoroughly pecky."
"The bird's brown plumage was pecky with lighter markings."
Pecky gives a vivid, distinctly British way to describe something speckled with mud or marked by many small spots.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of pecky
The precise origin of “pecky” is not securely established in standard reference works. Its established meaning is connected with being marked or covered in small spots, and it is now chiefly associated with informal British English.
How pecky is actually used
Chiefly British and informal. It is more often used for surfaces, clothing, or animals marked with mud, dirt, or contrasting flecks than as a formal descriptive term.
Easily confused with pecky
Pecky means marked or covered with small spots or flecks, whereas peckish means slightly hungry.