Mealy

The adjective 'mealy' describes something with a dry, powdery, and often gritty texture, resembling meal or flour. This tactile quality can be applied to both food and non-food items. Beyond texture, 'mealy' can also describe a bland or insipid taste, lacking significant flavor. Further extending the meaning, 'mealy' can metaphorically describe a person or speech as lacking sincerity or forthrightness, being evasive or insincere; someone speaking in a roundabout or ambiguous way to avoid direct answers or convey a genuine sentiment. The core meaning always relates to dryness, a fine particulate quality, and a lack of satisfying substance.

Mealy meaning with examples

• The overly ripe apple was disappointingly mealy. Its texture crumbled in my mouth, leaving a dry, almost floury residue. The once crisp and juicy fruit had lost its appeal, becoming an unpleasant reminder of its decaying state. The lack of vibrant moisture made each bite feel like a chore, contrasting sharply with the delightful crunch one anticipates.
• She described the old bread's mealy consistency as off-putting. The stale slices, once perfectly fine, crumbled into a powdery substance, resembling ground flour. The mealy texture made it difficult to swallow. Its dryness was a noticeable difference, further emphasizing the poor quality.
• His attempts at humor fell flat, delivered with a mealy delivery that failed to elicit any laughter. His jokes lacked punch and wit. There was nothing witty to keep anyone amused. The humor simply didn't land, sounding forced and inauthentic, leaving the audience indifferent.
• The politician gave a mealy response to the pressing questions, dodging direct answers and offering vague assurances instead. He spoke in circles. His words lacked substance, reflecting an unwillingness to fully address the issue at hand and maintain his cover. This evasiveness further eroded trust.
• The mealy coating on the antique pottery made it feel fragile. The pottery was a lovely sight. The dry texture indicated age and decay. The delicate feel reminded the owner of the vulnerability to the environment, which can deteriorate and damage old objects. Handle with care!