iffy

adjective

if·​fy ˈi-fē 

1

: having many uncertain or unknown qualities or conditions

an iffy proposition

2

: of inconsistent or unreliable quality

iffiness noun

Examples of iffy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sources said the front office explored adding edge rushers and running backs, two positions with iffy depth; though head coach Mike Vrabel indicated Wednesday afternoon the team was never close on a deal. —Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 5 Nov. 2025

The 6-2 Trojans got one of their biggest wins of the Lincoln Riley era, as Nebraska’s already-iffy offense couldn’t do anything after Dylan Raiola exited with an ankle injury. —Alex Kirshner, New York Times, 2 Nov. 2025

But Bryce Young may not return from a high ankle sprain and backup Andy Dalton is iffy with a thumb injury — a bad QB situation to bring to Lambeau Field. —Miami Herald, 30 Oct. 2025

Washington’s passing game is iffy, and its defense is struggling. —Luca Evans, Denver Post, 25 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

if entry 1

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for iffy

• jiffy

Kids Definition

iffy

adjective

if·​fy ˈif-ē 

1

: having many uncertain or unknown qualities or conditions

an iffy situation

2

: of inconsistent or unreliable quality

iffiness noun