Swanky: meaning, definitions and examples

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swanky

[ˈswæŋki ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

fashion

Stylish, elegant, and fashionable.

Synonyms

elegant, fashionable, stylish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swanky	Used when describing something that is high-class, luxurious, and possibly a bit showy. This word often carries a slightly negative or flamboyant implication. They stayed at a swanky hotel downtown. She showed off her swanky new car at the party.
stylish	Describes someone or something that has a particular style or flair. It is often used to describe fashion but can also refer to other designs and appearances. Her home is stylish and modern. He looks very stylish in his new suit.
elegant	Describes something that is graceful, tasteful, and refined, often associated with simplicity and beauty. It is usually used in positive contexts. She wore an elegant black dress to the event. The restaurant has an elegant décor.
fashionable	Refers to someone or something that follows the latest trends and styles, often used in the context of clothing and accessories. He always wears the most fashionable clothes. That boutique sells very fashionable handbags.

Examples of usage

The celebrities were dressed in swanky outfits for the red carpet event.
She always stays at the swankiest hotels when she travels.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

slang

A person who is showy in appearance or manner.

Synonyms

flashy, pretentious, showy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
swanky	Used to describe something that is stylish, luxurious, and expensive, often in an attractive way. The hotel lobby had a swanky design with modern furniture and elegant chandeliers They drove up in a swanky car
showy	Used for something that is meant to attract attention due to its elaborate and noticeable appearance, often to impress others. It can have a slight negative connotation. His showy display of wealth made everyone in the room uncomfortable The actress wore a showy dress covered in sequins
flashy	Used for something that is very bright, noticeable, and likely to attract attention, possibly in a way that is too much. Often has a slightly negative connotation. He wore a flashy gold chain that caught everyone's eye The restaurant's flashy neon sign was hard to miss
pretentious	Describes someone or something trying to appear more important, special, or valuable than it actually is. This has a negative connotation. She made pretentious claims about her artistic talents The restaurant's pretentious menu descriptions seemed over the top

Examples of usage

He may come off as a bit of a swanky, but he's actually a very kind person.
Don't let his swanky attitude fool you, he's really down-to-earth.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'swanky' originated in the 19th century, likely derived from the slang of the British upper class.
It is believed to relate to the word 'swank,' which means to show off or flaunt.
In its early use, 'swanky' often described people who were pretentious about their wealth or style.

Pop Culture

The term has been popularized in films and music, often associated with glamorous lifestyles in movies from the 1920s and '30s.
Songs like 'Swanky Modes' by The Black Keys use 'swanky' to evoke images of luxurious and fashionable living.
'Swanky' can also describe upscale venues in nightlife, making it a common term in contemporary urban culture.

Fashion

The fashion industry often uses 'swanky' to describe high-end brands that are known for their chic designs.
During fashion weeks, shows that showcase extravagant collections are frequently described as 'swanky' due to their opulence.
Swanky styles can include bold colors, lavish materials, and statements that stand out in the crowd.

Social Behavior

The word implies not just appearance but also attitude, often referring to individuals who carry themselves with confidence and flair.
Being called 'swanky' can have both positive and negative connotations, suggesting someone is stylish but perhaps overly showy.
Swanky gatherings are often characterized by exclusivity, attracting those who are fashionable and influential.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, swanky items or appearances often signify a person's social status or wealth.
The concept of being swanky can vary by region, where local trends and values influence what is deemed stylish.
Social media has amplified the concept of ‘swanky’ living, with influencers showcasing lavish lifestyles to garner attention.

Translations

Translations of the word "swanky" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chique

🇮🇳 शानदार

🇩🇪 schick

🇮🇩 mewah

🇺🇦 шикарний

🇵🇱 szykowny

🇯🇵 豪華な

🇫🇷 chic

🇪🇸 elegante

🇹🇷 şık

🇰🇷 화려한

🇸🇦 فاخر

🇨🇿 nóbl

🇸🇰 šik

🇨🇳 华丽的

🇸🇮 šik

🇮🇸 flottur

🇰🇿 сәнді

🇬🇪 ელეგანტური

🇦🇿 şık

🇲🇽 elegante

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,621, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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35618 annelid
35619 temporize
35620 fizzle
35621 swanky
35622 andante
35623 swivelling
35624 tilde
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