What does lankier mean?
The term lankier is a comparative adjective used to describe something or someone that is longer and thinner than usual, often in a way that appears awkward or ungainly. It is commonly applied to describe people, particularly in reference to their height and build, as well as to objects such as tree branches or stems of plants that grow in an awkwardly thin and tall manner. The word carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of robustness or athleticism. Lankier is the comparative form of the adjective lanky, which itself is derived from the word lank, meaning thin or lean.
adjectiveComparative form of lanky, meaning longer and thinner than usual in a way that looks awkward or ungainly.
- Describing something or someone that is awkwardly long and thin
- Comparative form of lanky
"The lankier branches of the tree swayed precariously in the wind."
"The lankier stems of the plant struggled to support their top-heavy blooms."
"He was a lankier version of his more athletic brother."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of lankier
The word lankier originates from the adjective lanky, which is derived from the word lank. Lank has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages, historically meaning thin or lean. Over time, lanky emerged as a descriptive term for people or things that are awkwardly tall and thin. The comparative form lankier is used to describe something that is more lanky than another.
Usage notes
Often used to describe people or things that are awkwardly tall and thin, sometimes with a connotation of ungainliness.