moldy

adjective

ˈmōl-dē How to pronounce moldy (audio)
moldier; moldiest
Synonyms of moldynext
1
: of, resembling, or covered with mold
2
a
: being old and moldering : crumbling
b
: antiquated, fusty
moldy tradition
moldiness noun

Examples of moldy in a Sentence

Her books became moldy after being left in a damp basement. The wine had a slightly moldy aroma.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While top-loading machines don’t have as many problems with moldy door seals, letting the drum dry when the machine is not in use is still a good idea. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 10 Oct. 2026 Once one slice is moldy, the rest of the loaf, and potentially anything nearby, is exposed. — Bridget Shirvell, Martha Stewart, 23 Sep. 2026 Key Takeaways Fresh ginger should feel firm, with plump knobs and taut skin, while soft or moldy pieces should be avoided. — Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 15 Sep. 2026 The inspector reported numerous issues with food safety, including improper holding temperatures, improper thawing practices, moldy limes and unsafe storage. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for moldy

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of moldy was in the 14th century

Rhymes for moldy

See All Rhymes for moldy

Browse Nearby Words

moldwarp
moldy
moldy corn poisoning
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Moldy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/moldy. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

moldy

adjective
ˈmōl-dē How to pronounce moldy (audio)
moldier; moldiest
: resembling, containing, or covered with mold
moldiness noun

Medical Definition

moldy

adjective
variants or chiefly British mouldy
ˈmōl-dē How to pronounce moldy (audio)
moldier or chiefly British mouldier; mouldiest
: covered with a mold-producing fungus
moldy bread

More from Merriam-Webster on moldy

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