English Expression · Intermediate
dowdy up
To make something appear plain and unattractive
Pronunciation: say dowdy up
Meaning
To make something appear plain and unattractive.
Example
I don't want one ounce of sex appeal emanating from me. I find flip-flops that are too big, and roll up the hem. Hell, I'm even going to dowdy up my hair.
I don't want one ounce of sex appeal emanating from me. I find flip-flops that are too big, and roll up the hem. Hell, I'm even going to dowdy up my hair.
Practice tips
- Practice dowdy up out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.