Tackier: meaning, definitions and examples

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tackier

 

[ ˈtækiər ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

tastelessly gaudy

The term 'tackier' is the comparative form of the adjective 'tacky.' It is often used to describe something that is considered to be in poor taste, overly showy, or gaudy. This can apply to fashion, decor, or behavior that lacks sophistication or elegance. In a broader sense, 'tackier' can refer to anything that is perceived as cheap or of lower quality. The usage typically conveys a negative connotation, suggesting that the item or action is not only unattractive but also somewhat embarrassing.

Synonyms

gaudy, showy, vulgar

Examples of usage

  • That dress is tackier than the last one she wore.
  • His attempts at humor have become tackier over the years.
  • The decorations at the party were much tackier than I expected.

Etymology

The word 'tacky' is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century, initially referring to something that was sticky or adhesive. The adjective evolved to describe the quality of being cheap or in bad taste, drawing from its original sense of stickiness to convey something that was not quite right or refined. The comparative form, 'tackier,' follows the pattern of English adjective formation, where adjectives ending in '-y' often take on '-ier' for their comparative forms. Over time, the term has been commonly used in various social contexts to critique aesthetics, indicating that what is 'tackier' often elicits a sense of embarrassment or distaste among more discerning audiences. As culture and style trends have shifted, so too has the use of 'tacky,' often reflecting societal norms around fashion and taste.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,845, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.