The definition of the *Informal* word **"Sketchy"** is as follows: > **Sketchy** *[skech-ee]* > > **Adjective** *Informal.* > >1. unreliable or unsafe: > >*That street looks pretty sketchy.* > >2. disreputable or shady: > >*I'd stay away from him; he's got a sketchy past.* What is the Origin of this Usage? How does it relate to the word Sketch? >**Sketch** *[skech]* > > **Noun** > > 1. a simply or hastily executed drawing or painting, especially a preliminary one, giving the essential features without the details. > >2. a brief or hasty outline of facts, occurrences, etc.: > > *a sketch of his life.* > >3.a short, usually descriptive, essay, history, or story. > >4.a short play or slight dramatic performance, as one forming part of a vaudeville program. Etymonline only has the Origin of the *Formal* "Sketchy" describing an unfinished work.