lanky
UK: ˈlæŋki | US: ˈlæŋki
adj. (of a person) ungracefully thin and tall
adj. (of limbs or features) long and slender in an awkward way
The word "lanky" derives from "lank," an Old English term (hlanc) meaning "thin, loose, or flexible." Over time, "lank" evolved to describe something long and limp, often with a connotation of awkwardness. The suffix "-y" was added in Middle English to form an adjective, emphasizing the characteristic of being excessively slender or ungracefully tall. The word captures the imagery of someone or something elongated yet lacking sturdy proportions.
The lanky teenager struggled to fit into the small car.
Her lanky arms made it difficult to find sleeves that fit properly.
A lanky tree swayed precariously in the strong wind.
The basketball player’s lanky frame gave him an advantage on the court.
He moved with the awkward grace of a lanky foal.