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Podcast: Word of the Day
Episode: Chintzy
Description: Chintzy is an adjective that means cheap or gaudy.
In the 17th century, an Indian fabric called Chintz became popular in Europe. It was inexpensive, but ornate. In time this fabric gained a reputation as gaudy and unfashionable. The word remains with us today, maintaining the same meaning. Here’s an example:
The chintzy decorations at Mike’s house could get a little embarrassing at times. He may have had good taste, but he was too cheap to show it.