Tacky

/ˈtæki/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Lacking in style or good taste; gaudy or cheap.

The decorations for the party were so tacky that no one wanted to stay.

Adhesive or sticky; not fully dry or set.

The paint was still tacky, so we had to be careful not to touch it.

In bad taste; marked by a lack of refinement.

His tacky outfit made him the subject of ridicule at the formal event.

Etymology

The word 'tacky' originally referred to a tacky cloth or material; it is possibly derived from 'tack', which means to attach or hold something in place.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tacky tourism

Travel practices that exhibit bad taste or lack of authenticity.

tacky gift

A present considered to be of poor quality or in bad taste.

tacky behavior

Conduct that is overly showy or inappropriate.

Related Words

tackiness

The quality of being tacky, in terms of poor taste or stickiness.

tackily

In a tacky manner; poorly or in bad taste.

Slang Meanings

Overly showy or cheap styling.

Those neon colors are just so tacky, who would wear that?

Something that is not cool or impressive.

That new movie was a bit tacky, I expected better.