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Lanky: meaning, definitions and examples

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lanky

 

[ˈlæŋ.ki ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical description

Lanky describes a person who is tall and thin, often in a way that appears awkward or ungainly. This term is commonly used to depict someone whose limbs are disproportionately long compared to their body. The word can have a somewhat informal or casual connotation, suggesting a lack of coordination. It is often associated with adolescents or young adults who are still growing into their bodies. In essence, lanky captures that distinctive gangly look.

Synonyms

gaunt, slender, spindly, tall.

Examples of usage

  • He was a lanky teenager who stood out in the crowd.
  • The lanky giraffe stretched its neck to reach the leaves.
  • Her lanky frame made her appear graceful while dancing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originated from the mid-19th century, possibly derived from the Scottish word 'lank' meaning 'long' or 'thin'.
  • Its first use in English literature can be traced back to references to slenderness in characters of stories.
  • The term is often associated with a person who is tall and gangly, painting a vivid picture of awkwardness.

Cultural Perception

  • Lanky figures are often portrayed in cartoons as the comedic character, capitalizing on their physical awkwardness for humor.
  • In some sports, such as basketball, being lanky can be an advantage, as it aids in reach and agility.
  • The 'lanky' archetype can sometimes be related to youthfulness, suggesting that a person is still growing or finding themselves.

Psychology

  • People often perceive lanky individuals as more approachable due to their non-threatening bodily form.
  • The lanky build can affect self-image and confidence, especially during adolescence when physical changes are dramatic.
  • Research shows that body types associated with lankiness can evoke certain personality traits in people's minds, influencing first impressions.

Fashion

  • In the fashion industry, lanky models are often favored to display clothing designs as their height can showcase garments effectively.
  • Trends in clothing for lanky individuals often include layered styles to add dimension and shape.
  • Lanky fashion is sometimes associated with a casual, laid-back aesthetic, complementing elongated silhouettes.

Literature

  • Lanky characters are frequently used in literature to symbolize estrangement or the feeling of not fitting in.
  • Classic novels often feature lanky protagonists who navigate their awkwardness in a quest for belonging.
  • Descriptions of lanky individuals in literature can evoke a sense of whimsy or humor, adding depth to character portrayal.

Translations

Translations of the word "lanky" in other languages:

🇵🇹 esquelético

🇮🇳 पतला

🇩🇪 dünn

🇮🇩 kurus

🇺🇦 худий

🇵🇱 chudy

🇯🇵 痩せた (やせた)

🇫🇷 maigre

🇪🇸 delgado

🇹🇷 zayıf

🇰🇷 마른

🇸🇦 نحيف

🇨🇿 hubený

🇸🇰 chudý

🇨🇳 瘦 (shòu)

🇸🇮 suhec

🇮🇸 fínger

🇰🇿 жіңішке

🇬🇪 წვრილი

🇦🇿 nazik

🇲🇽 delgado

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,616, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.