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Lank Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lank

[læŋk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

physical appearance

Lank describes a person or animal that is tall, thin, and often awkward in appearance. The term often implies a lack of muscularity or substance, giving an impression of being spindly or gaunt.

Synonyms

slim, spindly, thin.

Examples of usage

  • He was a lank teenager, all arms and legs.
  • The lank figure of the horse stood quietly in the meadow.
  • Lank hair hung limply around her face.
Context #2 | Verb

to grow long

To lank means to grow long, especially in a way that is lean or ungainly. This usage is less common but can be applied to describe hair or limbs that have grown without much fullness.

Synonyms

extend, lengthen.

Examples of usage

  • After months without a haircut, his hair began to lank.
  • Her limbs lanked as she grew taller in her teenage years.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Usage

  • In literature, 'lank' is often used to describe characters who are awkwardly tall, highlighting their unique physiques.
  • The term is frequently employed in fashion discussions, particularly in describing models or style trends.
  • On social media, 'lank' can describe someone who’s tall without much muscle, often leading to comments about their appearance.

Art

  • Artists have captured lanky figures in various styles, symbolizing grace or awkwardness through elongated proportions.
  • In modern art, the distortion of figures to appear lanky can evoke feelings of isolation or surrealism.
  • Lanky characters appear in cartoons and animations, often exaggerating their features for comedic effect.

Psychology

  • People often associate lankiness with youth and energy, impacting perceptions of attractiveness.
  • Body image issues can arise from being labeled as 'lank,' affecting self-esteem in individuals, especially teens.
  • Studies show that tall, lanky persons may experience unique social dynamics, particularly regarding authority.

Fashion

  • 'Lank' figures are often idealized in certain fashion circles, leading to trends that favor elongated silhouettes.
  • Skimpy clothing styles can accentuate lankiness, contributing to discussions about body positivity and self-acceptance.
  • Runway modeling often selects lanky models, reflecting industry standards that prioritize height and thinness.

Origin of 'lank'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English, originally spelled 'lanke,' which meant 'slender' or 'thin.'
  • Related to the Old Norse word 'lǫngr,' meaning 'long', reflecting physical characteristics.
  • The term has evolved to suggest not just thinness but also a certain awkwardness in appearance.

The word 'lank' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English word 'lanca,' which meant 'long.' The Old Norse term 'lankr' also contributed to its development, meaning 'slender' or 'long.' Over time, 'lank' evolved to encapsulate the notion of being not just long, but also thin or weakly built, particularly in reference to physical appearances. Its usage has remained consistent through the centuries, often describing parts of the body that appear excessively thin or lacking in substance. This characteristic has not only persisted in modern English but has also been broadened to include contexts addressing growth patterns or the state of being lanky in stature or appearance.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,907, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.