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Whacky: meaning, definitions and examples

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whacky

 

[ ˈwÃĶk.i ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

humorous behavior

The term 'whacky' describes something that is characterized by eccentricity or a sense of humor that is quirky and unconventional. It often refers to actions, ideas, or items that are absurdly funny or slightly crazy. The word suggests a playful or silly attitude towards life or specific situations. A 'whacky' person might embrace silliness or engage in unpredictable behavior, leading to amusing outcomes.

Synonyms

eccentric, freaky, madcap, quirky, zany

Examples of usage

  • His whacky sense of humor had everyone laughing.
  • She wore a whacky hat to the party that caught everyone's attention.
  • The whacky antics of the comedian made the show unforgettable.

Word origin

The word 'whacky' is derived from the earlier form 'wacky', which developed in the mid-20th century in American English. It is thought to be a modification of the term 'wack', meaning 'crazy' or 'offbeat', which itself has roots in African American Vernacular English. The playful nature of the word reflects a cultural shift towards embracing eccentricity and humor in social behaviors. 'Whacky' gained popularity in informal contexts, especially in entertainment and comedy, where humor that challenges conventional norms is celebrated. This evolution aligns with broader societal trends that value creativity and individual expression, leading to its usage in various contexts from personal descriptions to artistic expressions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,739, 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.