# freaky

/ˈfɹiki/ (US) · /fɹˈiːki/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/freaky
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. strange or bizarre

adjective · CEFR B2 · Informal · Slang

very strange, unusual, or unexpected in a way that surprises you.

For teachers: denoting something highly unusual, bizarre, or eccentric. Often used to describe coincidences or unexpected events.

- It was really freaky that we both wore the exact same outfit today.
- The resemblance between the two strangers was so freaky that several people in the crowd stopped to stare.

### 2. scary or unsettling

adjective · CEFR B2 · Informal · Slang

frightening or creepy in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable.

For teachers: evoking a sense of unease, fear, or the uncanny.

- I heard a freaky noise coming from the basement late last night.
- The abandoned asylum had a freaky atmosphere that made the urban explorers regret their decision to enter.

### 3. sexually adventurous

adjective · CEFR C1 · Informal · Slang

having or showing sexual interests that are unusual or very bold.

For teachers: referring to sexual behavior that is considered unconventional, adventurous, or uninhibited.

- He has a reputation for being a bit freaky in the bedroom.
- The song's lyrics explore a freaky side of the artist that fans hadn't seen in her earlier, more conservative work.

Usage: Often used predicatively (after a verb like 'to be' or 'to get').

Teaching tip: In modern internet culture, this sense is very common; teachers should warn students that using it to describe a person can imply sexual boldness.

## Examples

- It was freaky how she knew exactly what I was thinking.
- The old house had a freaky atmosphere, especially when the wind whistled through the broken windows at night.
- The resemblance between the two strangers was so freaky that several people at the party stopped to ask if they were long-lost twins.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.