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Definition of tangy

tangy

/ˈtæŋ.i/
tan · gy
Adverb:tangily
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tangy Lexical Profile

tangy Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having a strong, pleasantly sharp, or piquant taste or smell, especially with a slight sourness or citrus note.

Example

"The chef prepared a tangy lemon vinaigrette to dress the fresh summer salad."

2

Lively, stimulating, or sharply incisive in style, wit, or character.

Example

"The columnist was admired by readers for her tangy, irreverent commentary on local politics."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for tangy

• Nearby Words

tango
tangor
tangram
tangy
tank
tankard
tanked

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 18th century from the noun 'tang' (meaning a sharp taste or smell) plus the adjective suffix '-y'. The root 'tang' derives from Middle English and Old Norse 'tangi', meaning a sharp point or sting.

Cite this Entry

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