What does skinny mean?
Skinny is an informal adjective meaning very thin, lean, or slender, especially when describing a person’s body or frame. It can also refer to something narrow or reduced in size, as in “skinny jeans” or a “skinny portion” of food. The word is widely used in British and American English, but its tone depends on context: it may be matter-of-fact, humorous, complimentary, or unkind when directed at someone’s appearance. Skinny is especially associated with clothing such as skinny jeans and with the expression “skinny dipping,” meaning swimming or bathing without clothes. Compared with thin, skinny often emphasizes a lack of bulk or flesh; compared with slender, it can sound more casual and sometimes more critical. It is a useful everyday word for describing both people and objects that are notably narrow or limited in size.
Very thin or lacking flesh; slender.
"He is skinny but strong."
Informal; when describing a person's build, it can sound blunt or critical.
Narrow or reduced in size, especially of clothing, food portions, or objects.
"She bought a pair of skinny jeans."
This use is common in informal and commercial contexts.
A very thin person, used informally.
"There was a skinny standing near the entrance."
This noun use is informal and less common than the adjective.
Skinny is an old English word for being thin, but it remains one of the most familiar terms for a slender frame.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does skinny come from?
The word developed in English from “skin” with the adjectival suffix “-y,” reflecting the idea of a body with little flesh covering it. Its spelling developed through an older form with “-ie,” which was eventually shortened to the modern spelling. The word has been used in this general sense since the early 17th century, and its contemporary uses extend from descriptions of a thin person to narrow clothing and reduced portions.
Related word forms
How skinny is actually used
Informal and common in both British and American English. When describing a person, it may sound blunt or potentially insulting, although it can also be neutral or affectionate depending on context.
Easily confused with skinny
Skinny usually describes someone or something that is physically thin, while skimpy describes an amount or supply that is too small or insufficient.