What does whacky mean?
Whacky is an informal adjective meaning eccentric, unconventional, or seemingly crazy. It is commonly used with a playful or humorous tone to describe unusual people, behaviour, ideas, stories, and situations. For example, a plan may be called whacky when it is inventive, eccentric, or implausible, while a performance may be described as whacky because of its absurd humour and unconventional style. The word can suggest that something is so strange that it seems slightly out of control, but it does not necessarily mean seriously dangerous or mentally disordered. Whacky is a spelling variant of wacky, though it is less common in formal use. Both spellings are found in British and American English. In a general context, whacky is especially useful for conveying eccentricity with a light-hearted or exaggerated emphasis, though more neutral terms such as unconventional, eccentric, or quirky may be preferable in formal writing.
adjectiveEccentric, unconventional, or seemingly crazy, often in an amusing or exaggerated way.
- Eccentric, unconventional, or seemingly crazy, often in an amusing or exaggerated way.
"The old scientist had a wonderfully whacky theory about time."
"The old scientist had a wonderfully whacky theory about time."
"The comedy special has a whacky premise and plenty of absurd jokes."
Whacky is wacky with an extra “h”—a tiny spelling change that gives an old informal word its wonderfully silly air.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does whacky come from?
Whacky is an alternative spelling of wacky, a word that became established in English during the early 20th century. The ultimate origin of wacky is uncertain, although it has been associated with whack. Whacky subsequently developed as a less common variant spelling in English-speaking varieties.
Related word forms
How whacky is actually used
Informal and often playful rather than solemn. It may describe people, behaviour, ideas, or situations that seem eccentric, irrational, or deliberately absurd.
Easily confused with whacky
Whacky is a less common spelling variant of wacky; both are normally pronounced the same way and have essentially the same meaning.