Smoky Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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smoky

[ˈsmoʊki ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

weather

Filled, affected, or characterized by smoke.

Synonyms

foggy, hazy, smoggy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smoky

Referring to something that has a flavor or smell reminiscent of smoke.

  • The barbecue had a smoky flavor that everyone loved
  • The whiskey has a distinctive smoky aroma
smoggy

Describing air pollution that forms a thick, dirty fog, common in urban areas.

  • The city was smoggy due to heavy traffic and industrial emissions
  • On smoggy days, people are advised to stay indoors
hazy

Describing slight obscurity in the air, often due to light mist or dust; it can also mean unclear or vague in thoughts or memories.

  • The mountains look hazy in the distance
  • I have a hazy recollection of the events that night
foggy

Describing visibility heavily reduced by a thick mist, usually in natural environments.

  • Driving in foggy conditions can be dangerous
  • The morning was so foggy that I couldn't see the end of the street

Examples of usage

  • The sky was smoky from the nearby forest fires.
  • The air quality was poor due to the smoky conditions.
Context #2 | Adjective

flavor

Having the flavor, taste, or aroma of smoke, often used to describe food or drinks.

Synonyms

charred, grilled, smoked.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smoky

Used to describe something that has a strong smell or taste of smoke. Often used for environments or food.

  • The room had a smoky atmosphere from the fireplace.
  • This barbecue sauce has a nice smoky flavor.
smoked

Typically used for food that has been exposed to smoke for flavor preservation. Also used for preservation techniques of certain meats and fish.

  • Smoked salmon is a popular appetizer.
  • They prepared a smoked brisket for the party.
charred

Refers to something that has been burned or blackened, often due to cooking at high temperatures. The word has a slightly negative connotation when referring to food.

  • The edges of the toast were charred.
  • He liked his steak charred on the outside but tender inside.
grilled

Describes food that has been cooked on a grill, giving it a distinct texture and flavor.

  • We had grilled chicken for dinner.
  • She ordered a grilled cheese sandwich.

Examples of usage

  • The barbecue ribs had a delicious, smoky flavor.
  • The whiskey had a rich and smoky aroma.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Many foods are prepared with a smoky flavor, such as smoked meats or vegetables, enhancing their taste.
  • Some cooking methods, like barbecuing, intentionally create a smoky atmosphere which adds a unique flavor profile.

Cultural References

  • The word is often used to describe a certain style in art, where dark tones evoke feelings of mystery or nostalgia.
  • In literature and film, 'smoky' settings are used to create an atmosphere of suspense or danger.

Health Implications

  • Exposure to smoky environments, especially from cigarettes or fires, is linked to various health risks including respiratory issues.
  • The term is also used to describe perceptions of air pollution, where smoke from industrial processes affects urban health.

Weather Phenomena

  • Smoky skies can be a result of forest fires, which can lead to air quality alerts and health warnings.
  • In some regions, smoky conditions are seasonal, particularly in the summer months when wildfires are more common.

Origin of 'smoky'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'smoky' originates from the Old English word 'smoca', which referred to a cloud of smoke.
  • It became popular in the early 19th century, linking closely with fire-related activities.

The word 'smoky' originated from the Middle English word 'smoky' which is derived from the Old English word 'smocig', meaning emitting smoke. The use of 'smoky' to describe weather conditions or flavors dates back to the 16th century. Over the years, 'smoky' has become a common term used to convey the presence of smoke or the taste of smoke in various contexts.


See also: smog, smoke, smoked, smokescreen, smoking.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,005, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.