Funky
/ˈfʌŋki/
Definitions
3 meaningsHaving a strong, unpleasant smell.
/ˈfʌŋki/
Having a strong, often unpleasant smell.
The old cheese had a funky smell.
💡 Simply: Imagine something smells really bad, like old gym socks or a forgotten sandwich. That's funky.
👶 For kids: When something smells yucky!
More Examples
The basement had a funky odor after the flood.
How It's Used
"The gym bag had a funky smell after a week of being left in the car."
Modern; stylish; unconventional; exhibiting the style of funk music.
/ˈfʌŋki/
Modern/Stylish; unconventional and stylish.
That vintage car has a funky design.
💡 Simply: Imagine something's cool and unique, like a super stylish outfit or some cool music. That's funky.
👶 For kids: Cool and different!
More Examples
The artist uses a funky style in his paintings.
The music has a funky rhythm that makes you want to dance.
How It's Used
"She has a funky style, always wearing bright colors and unique accessories."
"The band played a funky tune, making the crowd dance."
Experiencing or causing excitement.
/ˈfʌŋki/
The crowd was really funky.
💡 Simply: If something's funky, it's exciting and lively, like a really fun party or a great performance.
👶 For kids: Really fun and exciting!
More Examples
It was a funky night with lots of dancing and music.
How It's Used
"The party was really funky last night."
Idioms & expressions
funky town
Refers to a place or situation that is exciting, interesting, or unconventional.
"The night club was a funky town with a lot of good vibes."
From the African-American English, meaning unpleasant smell. Later adopted to describe a soulful, earthy quality in music and culture, likely originating in the 1950s and 60s.
Originally used in African American English to describe a strong, unpleasant smell. Evolved to describe a soulful style in music and culture.
Memory tip
Think of a smelly, old sock.
Word Origin
"Originally, a strong, unpleasant odor."