dicky

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a small third seat in the back of an old-fashioned two-seater
  2. noun a man's detachable insert (usually starched) to simulate the front of a shirt
  3. adjective (British informal) faulty; - John le Carre

Etymology

From Dicky, pet form of Richard. * In cover/apron senses: perhaps from English dialect dick (“leather apron”) + -y; perhaps from Dutch dek (“a cover”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

dickey, dickie, dickey-seat, dickie-seat, dicky-seat

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