sweaty
|sweat-y|
/ˈswɛti/
covered or caused by sweat
Etymology
'sweaty' originates from English, formed by adding the suffix '-y' to the noun 'sweat' (meaning bodily moisture produced by perspiration).
'sweat' comes from Old English 'swāt' (also spelled 'swæt'), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning 'to sweat'; the adjective 'sweaty' developed in Modern English by adding '-y' to that noun.
Initially related specifically to the bodily moisture 'sweat'; 'sweaty' has retained that physical meaning and also gained informal figurative senses related to nervousness or intense effort.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
informal: a person who is sweaty or the state of being sweaty (used rarely as a noun).
There were a few sweatys after the workout waiting for a towel.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
covered in, producing, or caused by sweat; damp with sweat.
After the run, his shirt was sweaty.
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Antonyms
Adjective 2
informal: causing or associated with nervousness, intense effort, or anxiety; making one sweat (figuratively or literally).
The interview was a sweaty experience for her.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/08 14:56