How Do You Spell DICKY?

Pronunciation: [dˈɪki] (IPA)

The word "dicky" can be spelled in a few different ways, depending on the context. If it refers to a type of shirt front, it is spelled with a "y" (dicky). However, if it is used to describe something as suspicious or questionable, it is spelled with an "i" (dodgy). The pronunciation of both spellings is quite similar, with the first syllable sounding like "dick" and the second syllable rhyming with "key" or "gee." In IPA notation, the pronunciation is /ˈdɪki/.

DICKY Meaning and Definition

  1. Dicky is an adjective that is used to describe something or someone as problematic, unreliable, or unstable. The word originated in British English and is often used colloquially. When referring to a person, it suggests that they are not to be trusted or are prone to causing trouble. Similarly, when used to describe an object or a situation, it implies that it is faulty or likely to encounter issues.

    For example, one might say, "He's always getting into dicky situations," meaning that he often finds himself in problematic or troublesome scenarios. Alternatively, one might say, "The car's been quite dicky lately," indicating that the vehicle has been unreliable or experiencing mechanical difficulties.

    The term "dicky" is also sometimes used to describe a false shirtfront that can be worn under a waistcoat or jacket, particularly in British English. This usage refers to a specific type of clothing accessory rather than a general descriptor for unreliability or instability.

    Overall, the word "dicky" conveys a sense of unreliability, uncertainty, or trouble associated with people, objects, or situations. However, it is worth noting that the term can have different connotations or meanings depending on the context or region in which it is used.

Common Misspellings for DICKY

  • xicky
  • cicky
  • ficky
  • eicky
  • ducky
  • djcky
  • dkcky
  • docky
  • d9cky
  • d8cky
  • dixky
  • divky
  • difky
  • didky
  • dicjy
  • dicly
  • dicoy
  • diciy

Etymology of DICKY

The word "dicky" has several different etymologies depending on its context:

1. As an item of clothing: The word "dicky" originated in the early 19th century as a slang term for a detachable shirt front or bib-like garment worn over the chest. It is derived from the Hindi word "dikhā" meaning "to show" or "to display".

2. British slang: In British English, "dicky" is sometimes used to mean "broken" or "not functioning properly". Its origin in this sense is unclear, but it is thought to possibly derive from the Romani word "dik" meaning "bad" or "evil".

3. Australian slang: In Australian English, "dicky" is used to describe something that is not going well or is unreliable. Its origin in this sense is also unclear, but it may be related to the British slang meaning mentioned above.

Idioms with the word DICKY

  • not a dicky bird The idiom "not a dicky bird" means complete silence or absence of any sound or information. It is used to convey that there is no communication or response whatsoever.
  • not (hear) a dicky bird The idiom "not (hear) a dicky bird" means to hear no sound or receive no information, usually in regards to being completely unaware of a situation or having no knowledge about something. It is often used to express a lack of information, communication, or updates on a particular matter.
  • not say/hear a dicky bird The idiom "not say/hear a dicky bird" refers to the lack of any communication or information. It means that someone is not saying anything or not hearing anything about a particular subject or situation. It implies complete silence or a lack of knowledge on a specific matter.
  • not say a dicky bird The idiom "not say a dicky bird" means to say nothing at all or remain silent about something.
  • dicky-licker

Similar spelling words for DICKY

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