Lankier: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'lanky' and its comparative form 'lankier' originated in the early 19th century, likely from a Scottish dialect. It is believed to have been derived from the word 'lank,' which means 'long and slender,' particularly in a way that seems awkward or ungainly. The word's usage has evolved, but it primarily retains the essence of describing someone who is tall and thin, often with connotations of clumsiness or awkwardness. Over the years, 'lankier' has been used in various contexts, especially to describe young individuals during puberty, when they experience significant growth in height before their bodies catch up in terms of weight and musculature. This word has also found a place in sports and fashion, where body types are frequently discussed. Despite its potentially negative connotations, being lanky can be perceived positively in some contexts, especially in athletics, where height can be an advantage.

With rank #43,066, 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.

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