gunk

[ guhngk ]

noun

, Informal.

1. any sticky or greasy residue or accumulation:

   gunk on the oil filter.

gunk

/ ɡʌŋk /

noun

1. informal.
   slimy, oily, or filthy matter

Word History and Origins

Origin of gunk¹

An Americanism dating back to 1932; originally a trademark name for a degreasing solvent

Word History and Origins

Origin of gunk¹

C20: perhaps of imitative origin

Example Sentences

Wastewater is filled with human feces, garbage and other gross gunk that carries dangerous disease, and is piped away from our civilization for that reason.

From Salon

She chases a tip down a dark alley leading to a spotless lab where her numbered locker yields tubes of white gunk, syringes of green miracle formula and some easy-to-read instructions.

From Los Angeles Times

Poppy was found in a "dehydrated and malnourished" state with "gunk that was rock solid" around her eyes.

From BBC

To investigate the impact on indoor air quality, scientists study the gunk that builds up with laboratory models of surfaces.

From Science Daily

In the past she's sent samples of the "gunk" away to be tested.

From BBC

Related Words

• dirt
• goo
• manure
• mud
• slime
• sludge
• trash