scaly

[ skey-lee ]

adjective

, scal·i·er, scal·i·est.

1. covered with or abounding in scales scale or scale.
2. characterized by or consisting of scales; scale; scalelike.
3. peeling or flaking off in scales. scale.
4. Slang. shabby; despicable.

scaly

/ ˈskeɪlɪ /

adjective

1. resembling or covered in scales
2. peeling off in scales

Derived Forms

• ˈscaliness, noun

Other Words From

• scali·ness noun
• un·scaly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of scaly¹

First recorded in 1520–30; scale ¹ + -y ¹

Example Sentences

At less than 11 millimeters long the rough woodlouse, a drab scaly invertebrate that feasts on decaying vegetation, might seem like an unlikely master gardener.

From Science Magazine

All I can see are the dragon’s scaly blue legs and feet out the front window, that’s how tall it is.

From Literature

And lurking in that haystack: unblinking eyes and hovering heads and one scaly coil after another.

From Literature

Agents found the man’s scaly, squirmy passengers in small bags hidden in his jacket, pants pockets and groin area, according to CBP.

From Los Angeles Times

These scaly creatures, 400 meters long and with thousands of long, razor-sharp teeth, attack the mining operations without fail.

From Seattle Times