# honky

/ˈhɔŋki/ (US) · /hˈɒŋki/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/honky
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. offensive term for a white person

noun · CEFR C2 · Slang · Vulgar · American English

a very rude and insulting name for a white person.

For teachers: a derogatory and highly offensive ethnic slur directed at white people.

- The character in the old movie used the word honky to insult his neighbor.
- The use of the term honky in the 1970s film was intended to reflect the intense racial tensions of that specific urban environment.

Usage: This term is highly offensive and should not be used in polite or professional conversation.

Teaching tip: Learners should be aware of this word to understand historical or cinematic contexts, but must avoid using it as it is a racial slur.

## Examples

- The graffiti on the wall read 'Go back to your honky town'.
- The comedian used the word 'honky' in a joke that was meant to be shocking, but many in the audience found it deeply offensive.

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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.