Meretricious, a.
Etymology: [L. meretricius, from meretrix, -icis, a prostitute, lit., one who earns money, i. e., by prostitution, fr. merere to earn, gain. See Merit.]
1. Of or pertaining to prostitutes; having to do with harlots; lustful; as, meretricious traffic.
2. Resembling the arts of a harlot; alluring by false show; gaudily and deceitfully ornamental; tawdry; as, meretricious dress or ornaments. -- Mer`e*tri"cious*ly, adv. -- Mer`e*tri"cious*ness, n.
Shades of meaning
Fernald lists meretricious only as an antonym, under tasteful.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.
Synonyms
none given