seamy

comparative seamier · superlative seamiest

1. Sordid, squalid or corrupt.

   1987, David Brin, The Uplift War, Phantasia Press She just hadn't been aware, having considered such tales rather seamy while growing up.

   1 more example

   Lou Reed, lead singer of the Velvet Underground, veteran chronicler of life's wilder, seamier and more desperate side and one of the most influential and distinctive songwriters of his generation has died at the age of 71.

   2013, Sam Jones, Shiv Malik, “Lou Reed, lead singer of Velvet Undergound, dies aged 71”, in The Guardian Online

2. Having or showing a seam.

   1964, Philip Larkin, ”The Whitsun Weddings”, Faber & Faber The fathers with broad belts under their suits And seamy foreheads; mothers loud and fat;