Tacky: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that is in poor taste, often due to being flashy or not well-made.

• Those decorations look really tacky
• The outfit she wore to the party was considered tacky by the guests

Describes something that is excessively bright or showy in a way that is not aesthetically pleasing.

• The Christmas lights were so gaudy that they hurt my eyes
• She wore a gaudy necklace that didn't match her elegant dress

Refers to something that is low in cost or poorly made. Can also imply something of low quality or inferior standards.

• The shoes fell apart after just a week; they were really cheap
• He bought some cheap sunglasses that broke easily

Used to describe something that is lacking sophistication or good taste, often in a crude or offensive manner.

• His jokes were so vulgar that they offended many people
• The painting was criticized for its vulgar portrayal of the subject

Describing something that looks cheap, gaudy, or of poor quality. Often used in casual conversations.

• Her dress looked tacky with all those sequins.
• The decorations were so tacky, they ruined the whole party.

Describing something crude, coarse, or offensive, particularly in terms of language or behavior. It has a strong negative connotation.

• His vulgar language made everyone uncomfortable.
• The movie was full of vulgar humor and inappropriate scenes.

Refers to behavior or speech that is insensitive or shows a lack of culture, often considered rude. It's slightly more formal.

• His crass comments about the homeless people were shocking.
• She made a crass joke that offended many people.

Used for something lacking refinement or good taste. Can refer to food, clothing, behavior, etc.

• The comedian's tasteless jokes were not funny to anyone.
• The tasteless color scheme of the room made it hard to stay in.