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Definition of salty

salty

/ˈsɔːl.ti/
sal · ty
Adverb:saltily
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salty Lexical Profile

salty Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Tasting of, containing, or preserved with salt.

Example

"The broth was far too salty because the chef accidentally seasoned it twice."

2

Annoyed, bitter, or resentful, especially in response to a defeat, slight, or disappointment (informal/slang).

Example

"He was still salty about losing the championship game in the final seconds."

3

Earthy, coarse, or humorously vulgar in language or character, often associated with experienced sailors.

Example

"The retired captain entertained the crew with his salty tales and colorful vocabulary."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for salty

• Nearby Words

saltwater
saltwater crocodile
saltworks
salty
salud
salumi
salutation

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English around the 15th century from the Old English noun 'sealt' (salt) combined with the adjectival suffix '-y'. The slang sense meaning 'resentful or irritated' originated in early 20th-century African American Vernacular English and US Navy slang before entering mainstream internet culture.

Cite this Entry

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