lanky

[ lang-kee ]

adjective

, lank·i·er, lank·i·est.

1. ungracefully thin and rawboned; bony; gaunt:

   a very tall and lanky man.

lanky

/ ˈlæŋkɪ /

adjective

1. tall, thin, and loose-jointed

Derived Forms

• ˈlankiness, noun
• ˈlankily, adverb

Other Words From

• lanki·ly adverb
• lanki·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of lanky¹

First recorded in 1660–70; lank + -y ¹

Example Sentences

The lanky future Hall of Famer was unfazed by the football-themed cold open that featured John Belushi as coach and fellow “SNL” superstars Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd and Gilda Radner among Tarkenton’s teammates.

From Los Angeles Times

He grew up tall and lanky, playing multiple sports until growing into his lineman body.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s Boston to the rescue again, promoting the 44-year-old lanky left-hander Tuesday after he made just a single two-inning appearance in triple-A.

From Los Angeles Times

“He was lanky and had that LaRusso kind of long-limbed awkwardness,” Macchio said, alluding to the fact that Miguel Diaz is a modern take on his own character.

From Los Angeles Times

A lanky young skateboarder, who did not want to give his name, grinned and shook himself all over, like a dog after a bath, when asked if he thought Olympic swimmers would be able to take to the Seine.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• angular
• gangly
• gaunt
• rangy
• scrawny
• slender
• spindly