What does weevily mean?
The term weevily describes something that is infested with weevils, typically grains, seeds, or other stored food products. It can also be used more broadly to describe something that has a weevil-like quality or appearance. Weevily is often used in informal contexts, particularly in reference to food storage or pest control. The word is derived from the noun weevil, which refers to a type of small beetle that infests grains and seeds. Weevily is a useful word for describing situations where pests have compromised the quality or safety of food products. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is perceived as being 'infested' or 'corrupted'.
adjectiveWeevily refers to something that is infested with weevils, typically grains or seeds. It can also describe something that has a weevil-like quality or appearance.
- Having weevils; infested with weevils.
- Having a weevil-like quality or appearance.
"The old flour had a weevily smell and was crawling with insects."
"The pantry was filled with weevily cereal boxes."
"The weevily pattern on the fabric was meant to resemble insect damage."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of weevily
The word weevily is derived from the noun weevil, which refers to a type of small beetle that infests grains and seeds. The term weevil has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages, and has been used in English since the 14th century to describe these pests. The adjective weevily emerged later, likely in the 19th century, as a way to describe the condition of being infested with weevils.
How weevily is actually used
This word is often used in informal contexts, particularly in reference to food storage or pest control. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is perceived as being 'infested' or 'corrupted'.