dull in color; crestfallen in mood
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesadjective
(of color) dull; dingy; drab (derog.)
derogatoryUsed to describe colors that lack brightness and appear faded or dirty, often with a negative, slightly repulsive connotation. Typically used in the reduplicated form '灰溜溜的' (huī liū liū de).
The room hasn't been painted for years and looks dingy.
This piece of clothing has been washed so much it looks drab and unattractive.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
The factory wall was stained dull by the smoke.
adjective
crestfallen; dejected; downcast; listless
neutralDescribes a person's dispirited, downhearted, or ashamed mood, often visible in their expression or demeanor after a setback. Commonly used in the structure '显得灰溜溜的' or '灰溜溜地 + verb'.
After being scolded, he walked out looking utterly crestfallen.
For some reason, he has seemed downcast and listless lately.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
After losing the match, the team members left the court dejectedly.
Unable to face everyone's gaze, he had no choice but to slink away shamefully.