Streaky Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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streaky

[ˈstriːki ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

describing a pattern

Having a streaked or striped appearance; marked with long, thin lines or bands of a different color or texture.

Synonyms

banded, streaked, striped, variegated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
streaky	Describes something with irregular or uneven marks or lines, especially when some parts are stained or smudged. This can often have a slightly negative connotation. The window was streaky after being wiped with a dirty cloth. His face was streaky with sweat and grime after running the marathon.
striped	Refers to something with long, narrow bands of color or texture, typically in a regular pattern. Commonly used in fashion, textiles, and descriptions of animals. She wore a striped shirt with red and white lines. The zebra is a striped animal.
streaked	Denotes something marked with long, thin lines or streaks, often implying a natural occurrence or a result of movement. This word is relatively neutral but can sometimes imply imperfection. Her hair was streaked with grey. The sky was streaked with clouds at sunset.
banded	Used to describe something with distinct, evenly spaced bands or stripes, usually in terms of color or pattern. It's often used in scientific or descriptive contexts, such as describing animals or minerals. The banded lizard has bright yellow and black stripes. The geologist examined the banded rock formation.
variegated	Used to describe something with different colors, especially in irregular patterns or patches. It's commonly used in gardening and nature descriptions to denote diversity in color. The variegated leaves of the plant have shades of green and white. The butterfly had variegated wings with spots of blue, yellow, and black.

Examples of usage

The cat had a streaky coat of fur.
The bacon was cooked until it was crispy and streaky.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

describing behavior

Inconsistent or erratic in performance; characterized by alternating periods of success and failure.

Synonyms

erratic, inconsistent, unpredictable, variable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
streaky	Best used when describing performance that has periods of high and low success, particularly in sports or games. The basketball player's streaky shooting made it hard to predict his performance each game
inconsistent	Used when something or someone does not follow a regular pattern or standard, often leading to unreliable results. The student's inconsistent attendance affected his grades
erratic	Applies when behavior or performance is highly unpredictable and irregular, often in a way that seems unstable or unreliable. Her erratic driving scared all the passengers in the car
unpredictable	Describes something that cannot be easily forecasted or expected, often due to a lack of patterns or variance. The weather in this region is very unpredictable, so always carry an umbrella
variable	Best used when referring to something that changes or varies, often with an implication of adjustment or flexibility. The variable interest rates make long-term financial planning challenging

Examples of usage

Her streaky performance at work made it difficult for her boss to predict her outcomes.
The team's streaky play led to mixed results throughout the season.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

Many artists use streaky textures in painting to create dynamic skies or water scenes.
Streaky patterns can also enhance visual interest in hair design, commonly seen in fashion.
In abstract art, streaky designs can convey movement or emotion, making the piece feel alive.

Nature

Some breeds of animal fur, like the Maine Coon cat, can have streaky patterns that help them blend into their environments.
Certain types of fish, like striped bass, have streaky markings as part of their natural camouflage.
Streaky clouds, called 'stratus', can indicate changes in weather, such as an approaching storm.

Food

Bacon is often described as streaky when it contains layers of meat and fat, creating a delicious flavor.
Some ice creams, like fudge ripple, are streaky because they have swirls of chocolate mixed in.
Streaky vegetables, like striped tomatoes, are often prized for their unique appearance and flavor.

Photography

Streaky effects can occur in photography due to motion blur, creating a sense of action in a still image.
Light streaks seen in images often come from long exposures capturing natural movements, like stars or city lights.
Photographers sometimes use streaky filters to create artistic illusions and enhance colors.

Origin of 'streaky'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from 'streak', which means to make a line or mark.
It has its roots in the Old English word 'strecan', which means to stretch.
The usage of 'streaky' became popular in the early 19th century.

The word 'streaky' is derived from the noun 'streak', which originated in Middle English from the Old English word 'strica' meaning a line or mark. Over time, 'streaky' evolved to describe patterns or behaviors marked by lines or bands, as well as inconsistent or erratic performance. The word has been in use for centuries to depict various aspects marked by streaks or stripes.

See also: streak, streaked, streaking, streaks.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,885 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32882 overestimating
32883 rattler
32884 dahlia
32885 streaky
32886 suchlike
32887 dumpy
32888 spud
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