Top 35 Slang For Dilapidated – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to describing something that’s seen better days, we all need the right words to paint a vivid picture. In this list, we’ve gathered the most colorful and creative slang terms for “dilapidated” that will surely add some flair to your vocabulary. Whether you’re a word enthusiast or just looking to spice up your language, we’ve got you covered with this collection of expressions that perfectly capture the essence of decay and disrepair.

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1. Run-down

This term is used to describe something that is in poor condition or has been neglected over time.

For example, “The old house on the corner is run-down and needs a lot of work.”
A person might say, “The park used to be beautiful, but now it’s run-down and full of graffiti.”
In a discussion about neighborhoods, someone might comment, “The downtown area has become run-down in recent years.”

2. Beat-up

This slang term is used to describe something that appears worn, damaged, or in rough condition.

For instance, “He drives a beat-up old car that barely runs.”
A person might say, “I found a beat-up old chair at a thrift store and decided to fix it up.”
In a conversation about fashion, someone might comment, “I love wearing beat-up jeans because they have a cool, worn-in look.”

3. Ramshackle

This word is used to describe something that is in a state of extreme disrepair or is poorly constructed.

For example, “The old barn on the property is ramshackle and about to collapse.”
A person might say, “The abandoned house is so ramshackle, it’s a safety hazard.”
In a discussion about infrastructure, someone might comment, “The roads in this town are so ramshackle, they’re full of potholes.”

4. Rundown

This term is used to describe something that has been neglected or is in poor condition.

For instance, “The playground equipment is rundown and needs to be replaced.”
A person might say, “The hotel we stayed at was rundown and dirty.”
In a conversation about buildings, someone might comment, “The old factory is rundown and has been abandoned for years.”

5. Shabby

This slang term is used to describe something that looks worn, old-fashioned, or in poor condition.

For example, “She lives in a shabby apartment with outdated furniture.”
A person might say, “The restaurant looked shabby from the outside, so we decided not to eat there.”
In a discussion about clothing, someone might comment, “I need to buy some new shirts, all of mine are starting to look shabby.”

6. Decrepit

This term describes something that is in a state of disrepair or is old and worn-out. It is often used to describe buildings or objects that are falling apart or no longer functioning properly.

For example, “The old house on the corner is decrepit and needs to be torn down.”
A person might say, “I wouldn’t trust that decrepit bridge to hold my weight.”
Another might comment, “The decrepit car barely made it to the mechanic.”

7. Crumbling

This word refers to something that is breaking or deteriorating, usually due to age or neglect. It implies that the structure or object is no longer stable or solid.

For instance, “The crumbling walls of the abandoned factory are a safety hazard.”
A person might say, “The crumbling infrastructure in this city needs immediate attention.”
Another might comment, “The crumbling foundation of the house caused it to collapse.”

8. Derelict

Derelict is used to describe something that has been abandoned or neglected, often resulting in a state of disrepair. It can refer to buildings, vehicles, or areas that have been left unused for a long time.

For example, “The derelict house has become a haven for squatters.”
A person might say, “The derelict factory is an eyesore in the neighborhood.”
Another might comment, “The derelict ship has been stranded on the beach for years.”

9. Ratty

This slang term describes something that is worn-out, shabby, or in poor condition. It can refer to clothing, furniture, or any object that appears old and tattered.

For instance, “He showed up to the party in ratty jeans and a torn t-shirt.”
A person might say, “I need to replace this ratty old couch with something more comfortable.”
Another might comment, “The ratty carpet in the office needs to be replaced.”

10. Tumbledown

Tumbledown is a term used to describe something that is in a state of disrepair or falling apart. It suggests that the structure or object is no longer stable or safe.

For example, “The tumbledown barn is barely standing.”
A person might say, “The tumbledown fence needs to be fixed before someone gets hurt.”
Another might comment, “The tumbledown shed is full of junk and needs to be cleaned out.”

11. Weather-beaten

This term describes something that appears worn or damaged due to long-term exposure to weather conditions.

For example, “The old barn looked weather-beaten after years of standing in the rain and sun.”
A person might say, “The weather-beaten house had peeling paint and a crumbling roof.”
In a discussion about coastal towns, someone might mention, “The weather-beaten docks showed signs of erosion from the sea.”

12. Worn-out

This term is used to describe something that is no longer in good condition or functioning properly due to age or heavy use.

For instance, “The worn-out sofa had sagging cushions and torn upholstery.”
A person might comment, “The car’s brakes were worn-out and needed to be replaced.”
In a conversation about old shoes, someone might say, “These worn-out sneakers have seen better days.”

13. Desolate

This term refers to a place that is deserted, empty, and lacking signs of life or activity.

For example, “The desolate town had boarded-up buildings and overgrown streets.”
A person might describe an abandoned house as “desolate and eerie.”
In a discussion about remote areas, someone might mention, “The desolate landscape stretched for miles with no signs of civilization.”

14. Deteriorated

This term describes something that has gradually fallen into a worse condition over time.

For instance, “The deteriorated bridge had rusted beams and crumbling concrete.”
A person might say, “The house’s deteriorated foundation caused structural issues.”
In a conversation about old photographs, someone might comment, “The image had deteriorated over the years, losing its clarity.”

15. Neglected

This term describes something that has been ignored or not given proper maintenance or care.

For example, “The neglected garden was overgrown with weeds and dead plants.”
A person might describe a neglected building as “dirty and falling apart.”
In a discussion about abandoned properties, someone might mention, “The neglected house had broken windows and a sagging roof.”

16. Ransacked

This term is often used to describe a place that has been forcefully entered and thoroughly searched or vandalized.

For example, “The abandoned house was ransacked by vandals looking for anything valuable.”
A person might say, “After the hurricane, the town was left ransacked and in ruins.”
In a discussion about crime, someone might mention, “The burglars ransacked the office, leaving behind a mess of papers and broken furniture.”

17. Shambolic

This word is used to describe something that is in a state of complete disorder or disarray.

For instance, “The construction site was shambolic, with tools and materials scattered everywhere.”
A person might say, “The party was shambolic, with guests arriving late and no one knowing what was happening.”
In a review of a movie, someone might comment, “The plot was confusing and the pacing was shambolic, making it hard to follow.”

18. Cracked-up

This phrase is often used to describe something that is damaged or worn out, typically with visible cracks or breakages.

For example, “The old car was cracked-up and barely running.”
A person might say, “The building looked cracked-up, with broken windows and crumbling walls.”
In a discussion about furniture, someone might mention, “I found a beautiful antique dresser, but it was a bit cracked-up.”

19. Falling apart

This phrase is used to describe something that is gradually deteriorating or breaking down.

For instance, “The old house was falling apart, with the roof leaking and the walls crumbling.”
A person might say, “My relationship is falling apart, with constant arguments and no communication.”
In a discussion about infrastructure, someone might mention, “The roads in this city are falling apart, with potholes everywhere.”

20. In ruins

This phrase is used to describe something that is completely destroyed or in a state of extreme disrepair.

For example, “The ancient temple was in ruins, with only a few walls still standing.”
A person might say, “After the earthquake, the city was left in ruins.”
In a discussion about abandoned buildings, someone might mention, “The old factory is in ruins, with broken windows and collapsed ceilings.”

21. Unkempt

This term is often used to describe something that is in a state of disarray or neglect. It can refer to both physical objects and personal appearance.

For example, “The abandoned house had an unkempt yard with overgrown weeds.”
A person might say, “I need to clean my room, it’s so unkempt right now.”
Another example could be, “The unkempt hair and torn clothes made him look homeless.”

22. Wrecked

This slang term is commonly used to describe something that is in a state of complete disrepair or ruin. It can refer to both physical objects and emotional states.

For instance, “After the hurricane, the town was left completely wrecked.”
A person might say, “I got into a car accident and my car is completely wrecked.”
Another example could be, “He was so drunk last night, he came home completely wrecked.”

23. Deteriorating

This term is often used to describe something that is slowly declining in quality or condition. It can refer to both physical objects and situations.

For example, “The old building has been deteriorating for years and needs extensive repairs.”
A person might say, “Our relationship is deteriorating and I’m not sure how to fix it.”
Another example could be, “The deteriorating economy is causing widespread unemployment.”

24. Rickety

This slang term is commonly used to describe something that is structurally unsound or in poor condition. It often refers to furniture, buildings, or vehicles.

For instance, “The rickety old bridge swayed with each step.”
A person might say, “Be careful sitting in that rickety chair, it might collapse.”
Another example could be, “The rickety old truck barely made it up the steep hill.”

25. Delapidated

This term is used to describe something that is in a state of extreme neglect or decay. It is often used to describe buildings or structures.

For example, “The abandoned house was dilapidated and covered in graffiti.”
A person might say, “The old factory is falling apart and is completely dilapidated.”
Another example could be, “The dilapidated barn had holes in the roof and was barely standing.”

26. Cracked

This term is often used to describe something that is in a state of disrepair or decay.

For example, “The sidewalk was cracked and uneven.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe how cracked the walls are in this old building.”
Another might comment, “The windshield is so cracked, it’s hard to see through.”

27. Worn-down

When something is worn-down, it means that it has been used or exposed to wear and tear over time, resulting in a deteriorated or shabby appearance.

For instance, “The stairs were worn-down and creaky.”
A person might say, “The furniture in this room looks worn-down and outdated.”
Another might comment, “The tires on that car are completely worn-down.”

28. Tattered

This term describes something that is torn, frayed, or in a state of disrepair, often due to age or heavy use.

For example, “The book’s pages were tattered and yellowed.”
A person might say, “She wore a tattered dress that had seen better days.”
Another might comment, “The flag was tattered and barely recognizable.”

29. Broken-down

When something is broken-down, it means that it is no longer functioning properly or is in a state of disrepair.

For instance, “The car was broken-down and wouldn’t start.”
A person might say, “The old house was broken-down and in need of extensive repairs.”
Another might comment, “The computer was broken-down and constantly crashing.”

30. Dilapidated

Dilapidated refers to something that is in a state of disrepair, often due to neglect or age. It implies a significant level of deterioration and decay.

For example, “The abandoned building was dilapidated and covered in graffiti.”
A person might say, “The old farmhouse was dilapidated and falling apart.”
Another might comment, “The playground equipment was dilapidated and unsafe.”

31. Weathered

Refers to something that appears worn out or damaged due to exposure to the elements or age. It suggests a sense of ruggedness or endurance.

For example, “The weathered barn stood strong despite years of harsh winters.”
A person might describe an old photograph as “weathered” to indicate its aged appearance.
In a discussion about vintage furniture, someone might say, “I love the look of weathered wood.”

32. Rotten

Describes something that is in a state of severe decay or deterioration. It implies a lack of maintenance or care.

For instance, “The abandoned house was filled with rotten furniture and crumbling walls.”
A person might complain, “I can’t believe I paid so much for this rotten car.”
In a conversation about neglected infrastructure, someone might say, “Our city has too many rotten buildings that need to be torn down.”

33. Despairing

Indicates something that is in a state of disrepair or decline. It conveys a sense of hopelessness or resignation.

For example, “The despairing neighborhood was filled with boarded-up houses and overgrown yards.”
A person might say, “My computer is falling apart. It’s so slow and constantly crashes.”
In a discussion about a neglected school, someone might comment, “The classrooms are falling apart, and the roof leaks.”

34. Shoddy

Refers to something that is poorly made or in poor condition. It suggests a lack of quality or attention to detail.

For instance, “The shoddy construction of the building led to multiple issues and frequent repairs.”
A person might complain, “I bought this shoddy product, and it broke after a week.”
In a conversation about a dilapidated storefront, someone might say, “The store looks so run-down. It’s not inviting at all.”

35. Dismal

Describes something that is gloomy, depressing, or lacking in brightness. It conveys a sense of sadness or desolation.

For example, “The abandoned amusement park was a dismal sight, with rusted rides and overgrown vegetation.”
A person might say, “The weather has been so dismal lately. It’s been raining for days.”
In a discussion about a neglected park, someone might comment, “The park used to be vibrant, but now it’s just a dismal place.”