Definition

Adjective: 1. Small, round, and shiny: Resembling a bead in appearance; small, round, and glistening, often used to describe eyes. 2. Covered with or consisting of small drops or bubbles: Appearing as if covered with tiny beads, such as sweat or dew.

Usage

The adjective "beady" is primarily used to describe the appearance of eyes, suggesting they are small, round, and bright, often with an intense or watchful quality. It can also describe surfaces covered with small, bead-like droplets.

Examples

• Describing eyes:
  • The squirrel watched us with its beady black eyes.
  • He fixed a beady gaze on the suspect.
• Describing surfaces:
  • Her forehead was beady with sweat after the run.

Advanced Usage

• "beady-eyed": Having eyes that are small, round, and bright, often implying sharp observation or suspicion.
  • The beady-eyed shopkeeper noticed every detail.

Variants and Related Words

• Bead (n): A small, often round piece of material with a hole for threading.
• Beadily (adv): In a manner resembling or characteristic of beady eyes.
  • He looked at her beadily.

Synonyms

• Glittering: Sparkling with light.
• Button-like: Small and round, resembling a button.
• Shiny: Reflecting light brightly.

Antonyms

• Dull: Lacking brightness or shine.
• Large: Of considerable size.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To have a beady eye on someone/something: To watch someone or something very closely and attentively, often with suspicion.
  • The teacher kept a beady eye on the students during the test.

Adjective

1. covered with beads or jewels or sequins
2. small and round and shiny like a shiny bead or button
   • bright beady eyes
   • black buttony eyes