different between skiffy vs spiffy

English

Etymology

Phonetic spelling of sci-fi and deliberate mispronunciation.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /?sk?fi/
• Rhymes: -?fi

Noun

skiffy (uncountable)

1. (fandom slang, usually derogatory or humorous) Low-quality science fiction.

References

• Jeff Prucher, editor (2007) , “skiffy”, in Brave New Words: The Oxford Dictionary of Science Fiction, Oxford, Oxfordshire; New York, N.Y.: Oxford University Press, ?ISBN, pages 186–187
• Jesse Sheidlower, editor (2001–2021) , “skiffy n.”, in Historical Dictionary of Science Fiction.

English

Etymology

spiff +? -y

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /?sp?fi/
• Rhymes: -?fi

Adjective

spiffy (comparative spiffier, superlative spiffiest)

1. (informal) Dapper; fine or neat, especially in style of clothing or other appearance.
   • 1906, “Newport News in London,” The New York Times, 26 Aug, p. 9,

     The charming twins came last week, and you should see their clothes. ‘Spiffy’ is the word.

Synonyms

• snazzy
• spiffing
• spivvy

Related terms

• spiv
• spiff up
• spruce up

Translations

Noun

spiffy (plural spiffies)

1. (informal) A dapper person.

References

• Random House Webster's Unabridged Electronic Dictionary, 1987-1996.