Definition

Having the qualities or characteristics of clay, such as being soft, sticky, and malleable.

Example

The soil in this area is very clayey, making it difficult for plants to grow.

Conversation

I noticed that the soil in my garden is really clayey this year.

Yeah, that can make it tough for some plants to grow well.

I guess I'll have to add some sand to improve drainage.

That sounds like a good plan! It should help a lot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clayey → It is formed from "clay" (from Old English *claeg*, meaning a sticky, malleable earth) and "-ey" (a suffix used to form adjectives). The word "clayey" describes something that has the characteristics or qualities of clay.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'clay' which refers to that sticky earth, and remember that 'clayey' means having the qualities of clay.

Visually Confused Words