Synonyms of scaly

scaly

adjective

ˈskā-lē 

as in scaled

composed of or covered with scales

the snake's scaly skin was dry to the touch

Synonyms & Similar Words

• scaled
• squamous
• scalelike

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• scaleless
• smooth

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of scaly

Other signs include a change in skin texture that may look puckered, scaly or inflamed, and may appear red, purple or darker in other areas of the breast. — Gina Kalsi, PEOPLE, 6 May 2026

Many tried and true cultivars like 'Blue Chip' and 'Blue Rug' feature scaly blue-green foliage, while several new varieties have bright yellow to gold foliage that shifts color with the seasons. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 May 2026

The spa’s wellness pods mimic the scaly exterior of the endangered Sunda pangolin. — Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026

Yet another group of bone hunters in the area found a Triceratops skeleton next to a large slab of its scaly skin. — Paul C. Sereno, The Conversation, 24 Oct. 2025