Flakey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flakey

[ˈfleɪki ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

describing behavior

Unreliable, inconsistent, or unpredictable in behavior or performance.

Synonyms

inconsistent, unpredictable, unreliable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flakey	A secondary, identical term due to a typo. It's the same as 'flakey'. This is redundant and should be 'flaky' or omitted.
unreliable	Used to describe someone or something that cannot be trusted to perform consistently. This term is more formal and can apply to both people and things. The old printer is unreliable and often breaks down. John's work is unreliable; he's missed several deadlines.
inconsistent	Used when someone or something fails to maintain a steady or uniform pattern. This term is often used in professional or academic settings. Her performance has been inconsistent, making it hard to evaluate her. The data is inconsistent and can't be used for a reliable report.
unpredictable	Used to describe someone or something whose behavior or actions cannot be easily anticipated. It can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the context. The weather here is unpredictable, so always carry an umbrella. He's an unpredictable player, capable of surprising everybody.

Examples of usage

She's always flakey, you can never count on her to show up on time.
His flakey attitude cost him the job opportunity.
Don't be so flakey, be more dependable.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

describing texture

Having small, thin, flat pieces that can be easily broken off.

Synonyms

crumbly, fragile.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flakey	Informally used to describe someone or something that is inconsistent, unreliable, or absent-minded. It can have a mildly negative connotation. John is so flakey; he cancels plans at the last minute. I wouldn't trust her with this task; she's a bit flakey.
crumbly	Typically used to describe the texture of food or materials that easily break into small pieces or crumbs. The cake was deliciously crumbly and melted in my mouth. The old brick wall was so crumbly that it fell apart when touched.
fragile	Used to describe something that is easily broken or damaged. It can apply to physical objects, emotions, or situations. Handle the glass vase carefully; it's very fragile. After the argument, their relationship was fragile and needed time to heal.

Word

Description / Examples

flakey

Informally used to describe someone or something that is inconsistent, unreliable, or absent-minded. It can have a mildly negative connotation.

John is so flakey; he cancels plans at the last minute.
I wouldn't trust her with this task; she's a bit flakey.

crumbly

Typically used to describe the texture of food or materials that easily break into small pieces or crumbs.

The cake was deliciously crumbly and melted in my mouth.
The old brick wall was so crumbly that it fell apart when touched.

fragile

Used to describe something that is easily broken or damaged. It can apply to physical objects, emotions, or situations.

Handle the glass vase carefully; it's very fragile.
After the argument, their relationship was fragile and needed time to heal.

Examples of usage

The pastry had a flakey crust.
The paint was flakey and peeling off the walls.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

This word frequently appears in songs and movies to describe characters who are unreliable or don't follow through.
Shows like 'Friends' use 'flaky' to describe characters who are known for forgetting plans, enhancing the comedic effect.
In the craft world, flakey descriptions often refer to the textures of artistic materials, like paint or pastels.

Psychology

People described as flakey may struggle with attention or organizational skills, leading to missed appointments.
Flakey behavior can be linked to fear of commitment, resulting in avoidance of responsibilities or relationships.
Research suggests that flakiness may stem from anxiety or stress, making it difficult for individuals to manage plans.

Culinary Arts

Flakey pastries, like croissants and puff pastry, are achieved through a method called laminating, which creates multiple layers.
In baking, achieving a flakey texture often involves using cold butter to create steam during cooking, resulting in a crisp bite.
Flakey fish is often cooked using methods that keep the meat moist, resulting in a texture that falls apart easily on the fork.

Literature

In literature, characters who are flakey often bring humor and unpredictability to stories, making them memorable.
Flakey protagonists in young adult novels sometimes symbolize the challenges of growing up and figuring out responsibilities.
Authors often use flakiness as a metaphor to explore themes of inconsistency in relationships or self-identity.

Origin of 'flakey'

Main points about word origin

The word 'flaky' comes from the term 'flake,' which means a small, thin piece that has come off a larger item.
The first known use of 'flaky' dates back to the early 19th century, originally describing things that break into flakes.
In some dialects, 'flaky' has been used to describe unreliable or inconsistent behavior since the 20th century.

The word 'flakey' originated from the term 'flake' which dates back to the 17th century. Originally used to describe small, flat pieces or particles, 'flakey' evolved to also encompass the concept of unreliability or inconsistency in behavior. Over time, it has become a common term used in informal language to describe both physical texture and human behavior.