peaky
UK: ˈpiːki | US: ˈpiːki
adj. 1. (of a person) pale and sickly in appearance
adj. 2. having or resembling peaks; pointed or uneven
The word "peaky" combines "peak" (from Middle English pike, meaning a sharp point or summit) with the suffix "-y," which forms adjectives indicating a characteristic. Originally, "peaky" described something with peaks or a pointed shape (e.g., "peaky mountains"). Later, it evolved metaphorically to describe a person's pale, gaunt appearance—as if their features were sharply pronounced due to illness or fatigue. This dual meaning reflects the word's logical progression from physical sharpness to figurative sharpness in appearance.
After days of fever, he looked peaky and exhausted.
The peaky ridges of the Alps are a challenge for climbers.
She felt peaky and decided to rest instead of going out.
The artist drew peaky rooftops against the sunset.
His peaky complexion worried his friends.