Definition

Having long, rough hair or fur that is not smooth or tidy.

Example

The shaggy dog ran through the park, its fur blowing in the wind.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you seen my dog? He's gotten so shaggy lately!

Yeah, I noticed! He looks like a little furball now.

I really need to take him to the groomer soon.

Definitely! A trim would make him look so much better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shaggy originates from Middle English 'shagge', meaning having long, rough hair or fur. The word is derived from the Old Norse 'skegg', meaning beard, which relates to the rough, unkempt appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'shaggy' as describing something with a 'rough' or 'long' appearance, like a beard ('skegg') that is unkempt.

Visually Confused Words