sleaze

noun

ˈslēz How to pronounce sleaze (audio)
also ˈslāz
Synonyms of sleazenext
1
: sleazy quality, appearance, or behavior
also : sleazy material
2
: a sleazy person

Examples of sleaze in a Sentence

some sleaze will try to make a buck off of this tragedy a real sleaze who is constantly mooching off friends, and friends of friends
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.
Rodrigo’s other beloved trends, like vintage mod and indie sleaze, are also on the rise on the site. Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026 Like it or not, the mess of indie sleaze is back. Madeline Hirsch, InStyle, 3 June 2026 Still, attendees walked away from both impressed by new technology, impressive architecture and a little bit of sleaze. Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2026 Those who, like me, are decrepit enough to remember the indie sleaze years, will recall that white canvas plimsolls were a big thing back then, too. Daisy Jones, Vogue, 3 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for sleaze

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from sleazy

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sleaze was in 1948

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sleaze.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sleaze. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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