clunker

[ kluhng-ker ]

noun

, Informal.

1. something worthless or inferior.
2. Also klunk·er. an old, worn-out vehicle or machine, especially a car.
3. clunk ( def 4 ).

clunker

/ ˈklʌŋkə /

noun

1. a dilapidated old car or other machine
2. something that fails

   the novel's last line is a clunker

Word History and Origins

Origin of clunker¹

1940–45, Americanism; clunk + -er ¹; clinker ¹

Example Sentences

Unlike the losses in Cleveland and Detroit that ensured this trip would be a clunker, this wasn’t about fight.

From Los Angeles Times

But the garbage clunker received the lion’s share of attention due to the outcry from Puerto Rican voters in swing states.

From Salon

But, after briefly retreating to the clubhouse in the wake of his four-run clunker, the midseason trade acquisition trekked back to the dugout.

From Los Angeles Times

Occasionally, Rogue Machine has produced some clunkers, head-scratchers like the musical “Come Get Maggie” or plays that just weren’t ready for prime time.

From Los Angeles Times

For all of the frustration Buehler expressed after Tuesday night’s clunker, however, there was one goal he hoped wasn’t yet out of reach.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• auto
• automobile
• bus
• convertible
• jeep
• limousine
• machine
• motor
• pickup
• ride
• station wagon
• truck
• van
• wagon