adj

skanky

SKANG-kee

Skanky (adj) means Dirty, grimy, or unpleasant in a disgusting way. Example: “The motel room smelled skanky and looked like it hadn't been cleaned in weeks.”

adj

Dirty, grimy, or unpleasant in a disgusting way.

"The motel room smelled skanky and looked like it hadn't been cleaned in weeks."

How to use skanky

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSlang for grubby or repulsive; can also be used as a crude insult about a person.

When to use it

Informal and often vulgar slang — avoid in formal writing.

Word forms

skankier comparative, skankiest superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The motel room smelled _____ and looked like it hadn't been cleaned in weeks.

Etymology

From "skank" plus "-y."

Rhymes for skanky

lanky cranky swanky spanky Franky

See all rhymes for skanky →

Frequently asked questions

What does “skanky” mean?

The word “skanky” means dirty, grimy, or unpleasant in a disgusting way. In plain terms, slang for grubby or repulsive; can also be used as a crude insult about a person.

How do you pronounce “skanky”?

“Skanky” is pronounced SKANG-kee (/ˈskeɪ̯ŋ.ki/ in IPA).

How do you use “skanky” in a sentence?

Here is “skanky” used in a sentence: “The motel room smelled skanky and looked like it hadn't been cleaned in weeks.”

What part of speech is “skanky”?

“Skanky” is an adjective.