noun
Uncommon
thingy
THIH-ngee
Thingy (noun) means an informal word for an object whose name the speaker can't recall or doesn't need to state. Example: “Pass me that thingy over there, the one that opens jars.”
noun
1
An informal word for an object whose name the speaker can't recall or doesn't need to state.
"Pass me that thingy over there, the one that opens jars."
How to use thingy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual filler word for "thing", used when you can't remember or don't want to name something exactly.
When to use it
Very informal — fine in speech, out of place in formal writing.
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Word forms
- Plural
- thingies
- Comparative
- thingier
- Superlative
- thingiest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Pass me that _____ over there, the one that opens jars.
Etymology
From thing plus the informal diminutive suffix -y.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for thingy
See all rhymes for thingy →Frequently asked questions
What does “thingy” mean?
The word “thingy” means an informal word for an object whose name the speaker can't recall or doesn't need to state. In plain terms, a casual filler word for "thing", used when you can't remember or don't want to name something exactly.
How do you pronounce “thingy”?
“Thingy” is pronounced THIH-ngee (/ˈθɪŋi/ in IPA).
How do you use “thingy” in a sentence?
Here is “thingy” used in a sentence: “Pass me that thingy over there, the one that opens jars.”
What is another word for “thingy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “thingy” include Sorted by number of Google hits, widget, hickey, gizmo, gimmick and thingie.
What part of speech is “thingy”?
“Thingy” is a noun.
Is “thingy” a common word?
“Thingy” is an uncommon word in modern English.
