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

Even with one of their stars out, the Warriors had no problem dicing up an iffy Hornets defense. —Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 18 Jan. 2026

For now, the medical establishment is still iffy on emoji — and not just at health systems. —Katie Palmer, STAT, 14 Jan. 2026

The Texans gathered themselves after an iffy start and took a 7-6 lead when Stroud finished off a 16-play, 92-yard drive by flipping a pass to Kirk for a 4-yard touchdown. —Will Graves, Twin Cities, 13 Jan. 2026

The cinematic pickings are notoriously iffy in January but your favorite services like Netflix, Peacock, Hulu, Disney+ and Amazon's Prime Video have got the hookup for every taste. —Brian Truitt, USA Today, 9 Jan. 2026

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