adj
scrawny
SKRAW-nee
Scrawny (adj) means Unattractively thin, often to the point of looking undernourished. Example: “The scrawny stray cat looked like it hadn't eaten in days.”
adj
1
Unattractively thin, often to the point of looking undernourished.
"The scrawny stray cat looked like it hadn't eaten in days."
How to use scrawny
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThin in an unhealthy, weak-looking way.
Common mistake
Scrawny has a negative, unflattering tone; slim or slender describe thinness more neutrally or positively.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- scrawnier
- Superlative
- scrawniest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ stray cat looked like it hadn't eaten in days.
Etymology
A variant of an old dialect word, scranny, meaning \"lean\" or \"of poor quality,\" possibly from a Scandinavian root meaning \"rubbish\" or \"shrivelled.\"
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for scrawny
See all rhymes for scrawny →Frequently asked questions
What does “scrawny” mean?
The word “scrawny” means unattractively thin, often to the point of looking undernourished. In plain terms, thin in an unhealthy, weak-looking way.
How do you pronounce “scrawny”?
“Scrawny” is pronounced SKRAW-nee (/ˈskɹɔni/ in IPA).
How do you use “scrawny” in a sentence?
Here is “scrawny” used in a sentence: “The scrawny stray cat looked like it hadn't eaten in days.”
What is the opposite of “scrawny”?
The opposite of “scrawny” — its antonyms — are heavy, obese, large, overweight and strapping.
What part of speech is “scrawny”?
“Scrawny” is an adjective.
