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Definition of musty

musty

/ˈmʌs.ti/
mus · ty
Adverb:mustily
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musty Lexical Profile

musty Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having a stale, moldy, or damp smell or taste, typically caused by a lack of fresh air or moisture.

Example

"We opened all the windows to air out the musty basement after the winter months."

2

Lacking originality, vitality, or modern relevance; antiquated and dull.

Example

"The new director modernized the museum, replacing its musty exhibits with interactive displays."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for musty

• Nearby Words

mustardy
muster
mustiness
musty
mutable
mutant
mutarazi

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 16th century, probably an alteration of the obsolete adjective 'moisty' (meaning damp or moldy), derived from Old French 'moiste' and ultimately Latin 'mucidus' (moldy or snively).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Musty. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/musty
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