ENGLISH
REFERENCE

lanky

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɫæŋki// UK //lˈæŋki// lanky Archaic Informal Vulgar

adj. tall and thin in a way that looks a bit awkward or unsteady. You use this to describe someone who seems to have long legs and arms but not much muscle.

adj. tall and thin in a manner that suggests a lack of coordination or a gangly appearance.


SIMPLE

The teenager looked lanky in his oversized sweater.

CONTEXTUAL

He was a lanky young man who spent most of his time playing basketball at the local court.

COMPLEX

The actor's lanky frame and long limbs made him an ideal choice for the role of a restless, awkward youth navigating a crowded city.

Synonyms
Origin

From lank + -y.

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