Skunked: meaning, definitions and examples

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skunked

[skʌŋkt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

informal usage

The term 'skunked' is commonly used to describe the state of a beverage, typically beer, that has been spoiled or gone bad, often due to exposure to light or warm temperatures. When beer is skunked, it develops an off-flavor that resembles the scent of a skunk, making it unpleasant to drink. This term can also refer to other situations where something has been ruined or made undesirable. Overall, to call something 'skunked' denotes a clear disappointment.

Synonyms

bad, off, ruined, spoiled.

Examples of usage

This beer tastes skunked.
I think the milk has gone skunked.
Don't drink that; it's skunked!
The party was skunked by the rain.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'skunked' originates from 'skunk', an animal known for its strong odor, often relating to being overwhelmed or outmatched.
In sports slang, 'to skunk' means to win without giving the opponent a single point, reflecting the complete dominance seen in a skunk's powerful defense mechanism.

Pop Culture

The term is often used in various sports, like when a team loses a game without scoring any points, particularly in bowling or card games.
It has appeared in films and shows, often to exaggerate the humiliation of losing in a humorous context, reinforcing its association with defeat.

Sports

In the game of gin rummy, getting skunked occurs when a player ends the game with a score of zero, heightening the competitive stakes.
In bowling, when a team scores a perfect game (300) against a team that scores nothing, it’s often referred to as a 'skunking' in some locales.

Language Use

This word has evolved into various forms, such as 'skunked out', indicating a sense of being caught off-guard or failing unexpectedly.
It’s commonly used in casual conversation, especially among sports fans, adding a layer of camaraderie based on shared experiences of losing.