slimy

adjective

ˈslī-mē How to pronounce slimy (audio)
slimier; slimiest
Synonyms of slimynext
1
: of, relating to, or resembling slime : viscous
also : covered with or yielding slime
2
: vile, offensive
slimily
ˈslī-mə-lē How to pronounce slimy (audio)
adverb
sliminess
ˈslī-mē-nəs How to pronounce slimy (audio)
noun

Synonyms of slimy

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Examples of slimy in a Sentence

Get your slimy fingers off my jacket. please remove your slimy boots before coming into the house
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The vinegar will also help break down the mucilage, making the pods less slimy. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 7 Aug. 2026 Others, however, pick up strange flavors and are unappetizingly slimy and rubbery. — Jolene Thym, Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2026 Once cut, store summer squash in an airtight container lined with a dry paper towel to absorb excess moisture and help prevent it from becoming slimy. — Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 27 July 2026 Individual cells excrete stalks that stick to submerged rocks and, despite its slimy appearance, typically feels like wet wool. — Hannah Smith july 25, Idaho Statesman, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for slimy

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of slimy was in the 14th century

Rhymes for slimy

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Browse Nearby Words

slim to none
slimy
slimy-backed
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Cite this Entry

“Slimy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/slimy. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

slimy

adjective
ˈslī-mē How to pronounce slimy (audio)
slimier; slimiest
1
a
: of, relating to, or resembling slime : viscous
b
: covered with or producing slime
2
: vile sense 1a, offensive
sliminess noun

More from Merriam-Webster on slimy

Nglish: Translation of slimy for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about slimy

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