# trashy

/ˈtɹæʃi/ (US) · /tɹˈæʃi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/trashy
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

describing something that is low quality, cheap, or in bad taste. You use this for things like bad TV shows or books that are entertaining but not very smart.

For teachers: of poor quality, cheap, or culturally inferior. Often used to describe media or objects that are considered vulgar or lacking in artistic merit despite being popular or entertaining.

## Examples

- I love watching trashy reality TV shows after work.
- The hotel room was filled with trashy novels left behind by previous guests.
- Critics dismissed the film as trashy entertainment, yet it developed a massive cult following among viewers who appreciated its campy aesthetic and over-the-top performances.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as a gradable adjective; often follows linking verbs like 'is' or 'seems'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.