Pastey

Pastey describes a pale, unhealthy, and often clammy appearance, typically of skin. It suggests a lack of color, often associated with illness, poor health, lack of sunlight, or an excessive consumption of starchy foods. The term implies a sticky, doughy quality, evoking the image of paste or similar semi-liquid substances. It can also describe a generally lackluster or uninspired quality. The term is more often used informally and colloquially, but holds a distinct and visually descriptive quality. It effectively conveys a sense of something lacking vitality or vibrancy, often highlighting an unhealthy lifestyle or situation.

Pastey meaning with examples

• After spending a month indoors during the winter, his skin looked undeniably pastey. The lack of sunlight was evident in the ghostly pallor that covered his face, making him appear weak and frail, highlighting his confinement to the indoors. He seemed to lack the healthy glow typically associated with regular outdoor activity and exposure to sunlight.
• The sickly child's pastey complexion alarmed the doctor; the color suggested a lack of oxygen. Her cheeks were devoid of any pinkness and the skin appeared clammy and slightly shiny with a faint, unhealthy sheen. His parents expressed worries that he had an illness brewing, prompting additional examinations for potential medical conditions.
• Exhaustion took its toll on the marathon runner, and his pastey face revealed his strenuous efforts. The strain was visible in his drawn features and drained complexion. His once tanned skin had faded into an unhealthy-looking pallor. The intense workout made his face noticeably lacking color, emphasizing his physical and mental fatigue.
• The uninspired food reviewer described the pie as having a pastey filling that tasted bland. He said the doughy consistency felt undercooked. The lackluster description highlighted the dish's lack of flavor. His face wrinkled with distaste and his critique focused on the pie’s disappointing and unappealing qualities.