Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition


Tacky

Tack′y

,
Adj.
[Cf.
Techy
,
Tack
a spot.]
Sticky; somewhat adhesive;; – said of paint, varnish, etc., when not well dried.
[U. S.]

Definition 2024


tacky

tacky

English

Pronunciation

  • IPA(key): /ˈtæki/
  • Rhymes: -æki

Adjective

tacky (comparative tackier, superlative tackiest)

  1. Of a substance, slightly sticky.
    This paint isn't dry yet; it's still a bit tacky.
Translations

Etymology 2

In poor taste from 1888, from earlier sense shabby or seedy. Also see tackey (neglected horse), Southern colloquialism from 1800s, later extended to persons.

Pronunciation

  • IPA(key): /ˈtæki/
  • Rhymes: -æki

Adjective

tacky (comparative tackier, superlative tackiest)

  1. (colloquial) Of low quality.
    That market stall sells all sorts of tacky ornaments.
  2. (colloquial) In poor taste.
    That was a tacky thing to say.
  3. Gaudy, flashy, showy, garish.
  4. Dowdy, shabbily dressed.
  5. Shabby, dowdy in one's appearance.
Translations

Noun

tacky (plural tackies)

  1. Alternative form of tackey