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Definition of lanky

lanky

/ˈlæŋ.ki/
lan · ky
Adverb:lankily
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lanky Lexical Profile

lanky Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Ungracefully thin and tall, often having long, slender limbs that move somewhat awkwardly.

Example

"The lanky teenager easily reached the top shelf without needing a step stool."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for lanky

• Nearby Words

lank
lankily
lankiness
lanky
lanolin
lansing
lantana

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 17th century, formed from the older English adjective 'lank' (meaning 'slender' or 'flabby', from Old English hlanc) plus the suffix '-y'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Lanky. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/lanky
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