sketchily
|sketch-i-ly|
/ˈskɛtʃi/
(sketchy)
incomplete or suspicious
Etymology
'sketchy' originates from English, specifically formed from the word 'sketch' plus the suffix '-y', where 'sketch' originated from Dutch 'schets' meaning 'a rough drawing' and the suffix '-y' meant 'characterized by'.
'sketch' changed from the Middle Dutch word 'schets' into English as 'sketch'; the adjective 'sketchy' was later formed in English from 'sketch' + '-y' and became the modern word 'sketchy'.
Initially, it meant 'resembling or like a sketch; rough', but over time it evolved into its current senses of 'incomplete or lacking detail' and later also 'suspicious or questionable'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a rough or incomplete manner; lacking detail or thoroughness
He described the process sketchily, so many steps were unclear.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 2
in a suspicious, questionable, or unreliable way
The contract was explained sketchily, which made the clients uneasy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/15 04:11