Lanky

/ˈlæŋki/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Tall and thin, often awkward in movement.

The lanky teenager stumbled as he tried to navigate through the crowded hallway.

Characterized by long, slender limbs.

She admired the lanky frame of the basketball player as he gracefully moved across the court.

Having a bony or scrawny appearance.

The stray dog looked lanky and underfed, making her heart ache.

From the late 19th century, possibly from the dialect word 'lank', meaning 'tall, thin', of uncertain origin.

lanky teenager

A teenager who is tall and thin, often experiencing awkwardness in their growth.

lanky limbs

Refers to long and slender arms and legs.

thin

Having little body fat or muscle; slender.

tall

Of great or more than average height.

Tall and awkwardly build.

That guy is lanky; he can barely fit in the car.

Uncoordinated due to height.

He runs like a lanky giraffe.