What does scabby mean?
“Scabby” most commonly describes skin or a surface covered with scabs, especially when it is rough, sore, or in poor condition. For example, a person may have scabby knees after an injury or a veterinarian may describe a dog’s scabby skin. The adjective can also be used figuratively to describe something shabby, mean, or of poor quality, though this usage is more informal and may sound deliberately harsh. In its literal sense, “scabby” is a straightforward, vivid word that conveys both a physical condition and an impression of neglect or deterioration. It is especially useful when the appearance of sores or crusts needs to be described clearly without using a more technical medical term.
Covered with scabs; affected by rough, crusty sores.
"The child’s scabby knees were treated with antiseptic cream."
Commonly used literally of skin, wounds, and other affected surfaces.
Shabby, mean, or of poor quality.
"He refused to pay the scabby price demanded for the repairs."
This figurative sense is informal and generally carries a negative, dismissive tone.
From a medical warning to a character judgment, “scabby” can describe both a sore-covered surface and something regarded as miserly or poor quality.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of scabby
The word “scabby” developed in English from “scab,” a word for a crust or sore formed over damaged skin. The adjective-forming suffix “-y” gives it the sense of covered with or characterized by scabs. The related forms “scabbed” and “scabbing” preserve the same root, while the word is also used figuratively in the sense of shabby or miserly.
Related word forms
How scabby is actually used
The primary sense is literal and often describes skin, wounds, or a surface. The figurative sense is less common and can sound informal or dismissive.
Easily confused with scabby
Scaly describes skin or a surface covered with scales, whereas scabby specifically describes skin or a surface affected by scabs.
Shabby means worn, poor-quality, or badly maintained, while scabby primarily refers to a physical condition involving scabs and can figuratively mean shabby or mean.