washy

[ wosh-ee, waw-shee ]

adjective

, wash·i·er, wash·i·est.

1. diluted too much; weak:

   washy coffee.

2. pale, thin, or weak, as if from excessive dilution; pallid:

   washy coloring.

washy

/ ˈwɒʃɪ /

adjective

1. overdiluted, watery, or weak
2. lacking intensity or strength

Derived Forms

• ˈwashiness, noun
• ˈwashily, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of washy¹

First recorded in 1560–70; wash + -y ¹

Example Sentences

"Richard was incredibly keen on transplants and he used to nag me, 'what do you want to do?' and I was a bit wishy washy about it and wouldn't really answer."

From BBC

I had to take a softer tone and risk, potentially in the eyes of some people, seeming a bit soft or a bit non-committal and a bit wishy washy.

From Salon

To obtain the effect of “frizz,” Beaux has used a very thin, washy undercoat that leaves parts of the weave of the canvas exposed.

From Washington Post

“I am sorry, but there will be no further communication unless you fix the public perception of wishy washy support and interest from PIF,” he wrote.

From The Verge

The latest, “Light’s New Measure,” a survey at the Guggenheim of Adnan’s paintings, tapestries, and accordion booklets of handwritten poetry punctuated by washy gouaches since the 1960s, arrived with bittersweet timing.

From New York Times