Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Hunkier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💪
Add to dictionary

hunkier

[ˈhʌŋkiər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical attractiveness

Hunkier is a comparative form of the adjective 'hunky', which describes someone, typically a man, who is handsome and well-built. It implies a more muscular and attractive physique. This term is often used in contexts relating to physical appearance, charm, and desirability. Being hunkier generally suggests that someone has a more defined or appealing body that stands out in social situations.

Synonyms

handsome, more attractive, muscular, sturdier.

Examples of usage

  • He has become hunkier since he started working out.
  • The actor is known for his hunkier roles in action movies.
  • Many fans say the new model is hunkier than the previous one.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term gained popularity in the 1990s among magazines and films that promoted fitness and masculine ideals.
  • Notable celebrities labeled as 'hunky' include actors like Chris Hemsworth and Dwayne Johnson, often celebrated for their physique.
  • Reality shows often feature 'hunkier' contestants to attract viewership, linking physical appeal with entertainment.

Health and Fitness

  • There is often a societal connection between being 'hunkier' and higher self-esteem among men, influenced by fitness culture.
  • Regular exercise and healthy diets contribute to a 'hunkier' appearance, promoting both physical and mental health.
  • The concept of being hunkier has also merged with body positivity, encouraging individuals to embrace diverse body types.

Literature

  • In literature, 'hunky' characters often embody traditional masculinity, reinforcing certain gender roles.
  • Romantic novels frequently depict 'hunkier' heroes as objects of desire, influencing readers' perceptions of attractiveness.
  • Authors often use contrasts between 'hunky' and other character types to deepen themes of beauty and strength.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that physical attractiveness, often linked to being hunkier, can affect social status and job opportunities.
  • The 'halo effect' is a bias where people perceive hunkier individuals as more capable, smart, and friendly.
  • Social media platforms often emphasize hunkier appearances, impacting self-image and societal standards of beauty.

Origin of 'hunkier'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hunky' comes from American slang of the 1940s, originally meaning 'large' or 'sturdy'.
  • It was first recorded in print around 1950, often used to describe guys with good looks and big muscles.
  • The suffix '-ier' is added to create a comparative form, indicating a higher degree of the adjective.

The term 'hunky' originated in the early 20th century, first appearing in American slang as a description for a well-built man. It is thought to derive from the word 'hunk', which refers to a large piece of something, commonly used to describe a strong, hefty man. The evolution of the term 'hunky' reflects societal standards of masculinity and physical attractiveness. As fitness culture grew in the latter half of the 20th century, the positive connotations of being 'hunky' gained traction, especially in popular media. Over the years, the comparative 'hunkier' emerged as a way to compare men based on these increasingly celebrated physical attributes. The usage of 'hunkier' began to peak as the perception of masculinity shifted, making it a modern expression in discussions of male appeal. Today, you can often hear 'hunkier' in conversations about actors, athletes, and celebrities, particularly in contexts of personal fitness and attractiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,721, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.