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

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

One that includes sheer bounces, the roulette wheel of injuries, how iffy penalty calls are assessed and plenty else often beyond the Chiefs’ control. —Kansas City Star, 1 Jan. 2026

Jayden Daniels is shut down, backup Marcus Mariota is very iffy to play, and that means a dangerously likely start for Josh Johnson, who at 39 is playing for his 173rd NFL team. —Miami Herald, 23 Dec. 2025

Potted plants are much less forgiving of iffy gardening techniques, like pouring coffee on them. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Dec. 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