Definition

Having maggots in it or being infested with them; also describes something that is whimsical or unpredictable.

Example

The old food was maggoty and had to be thrown away.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that old sandwich in the fridge?

Yeah, it looked pretty maggoty and gross!

I can't believe we let it sit there for so long.

Next time, we should definitely clean it out more regularly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Maggoty → The word originates from the Middle English 'maggot' (meaning a small fly or larva), which itself comes from the Old French 'maggot' (meaning a maggot or fly). The suffix '-y' indicates a characteristic or quality. Thus, 'maggoty' describes something that is characteristic of or infested with maggots.

Memory Tip

Imagine something that is 'infested with maggots' — that's what 'maggoty' means, reflecting its origin from the word for maggot.

Visually Confused Words