What does leaky mean?
“Leaky” describes something with openings through which liquid, gas, or other contents can escape. A leaky pipe, roof, tap, or window is therefore damaged, worn, or poorly sealed, and the word can suggest a persistent nuisance rather than a single isolated leak. In figurative use, “leaky” means prone to disclosing information unintentionally, as in a “leaky memory” or “leaky source.” In computing and security discussions, it can describe a system or process that fails to contain data and permits unauthorized access. The adjective is straightforward and familiar in both British and American English, while its figurative applications convey informality, vulnerability, or weak control. It is especially useful when the concern is not only the escape itself but the possibility that information or other contents will continue to seep out.
Having or tending to have leaks; allowing liquid, gas, air, or other contents to escape through an opening.
"They noticed that the old boiler was leaking and called a repair technician."
Often used for pipes, roofs, taps, windows, containers, and similar objects; “leaky tap” is especially common in British English.
Indisposed to keep information private, or allowing information or access to escape unintentionally.
"The poorly secured network was described as dangerously leaky."
This figurative sense is especially frequent in discussions of privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity.
A leaky roof is more than a household problem: it can turn a single flaw into a chain of damp, rot, and damage.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does leaky come from?
“Leaky” was formed in the 17th century by adding the suffix “-y” to the verb “leak,” a word inherited from Old English. The related noun “leakage” developed later with the suffix “-age.” The root also appears in “leaking,” and cognates exist in several Germanic languages, including German “lecken” and Dutch “leken,” all relating to the idea of liquid passing through an opening.
Related word forms
How leaky is actually used
The literal sense is common in both British and American English. Figurative uses are informal to conversational in general contexts but common in specialized writing about information security and data privacy.
Easily confused with leaky
“Leaky” is an adjective describing something that has or permits leaks, whereas “leak” is a noun for an opening or escape, or a verb meaning to escape or disclose accidentally.