WordGarden.iopeaky
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈiːki/
US
- /pˈiːki/
Meanings
Adjective
looking or feeling slightly ill, pale, or weak
having pronounced peaks or spikes rather than a smooth shape or pattern
Beyond the definition
The word "peaky" is used in two main ways. It can describe something that has peaks or pointed shapes, like rough mountains or a roof with a sharp top. More often, especially in British English, it describes a person who looks pale, tired, or slightly unwell. If someone says you look "peaky," they usually mean you do not look your best and may be getting sick.
"Peaky" is an adjective with two common uses. In a literal sense, it describes something that has peaks, points, or a sharply rising shape. You might use it for a mountain line with many sharp tops, or for anything that looks uneven and pointed.
It is also commonly used, especially in British English, to describe a person who looks pale, tired, or a little ill. In that sense, it does not always mean seriously sick. Very often, it suggests that someone looks weak, washed out, or not quite themselves. A person might look "peaky" after a bad night of sleep, during a cold, or when they are simply run down.
The word can appear in cultural names such as "Peaky Blinders," but that is a separate name use, not one of the main everyday meanings of the adjective itself. In normal use, the word usually points either to a pointed shape or to an unhealthy, pale appearance.
Examples
- 1
Mild illness
You look a bit peaky. Are you getting a cold?
- 2
Feeling unwell
I felt peaky after breakfast, so I went back to bed.
- 3
Recovery
She was still looking rather peaky a week after the flu.
- 4
Sound quality
The sound was too peaky, with sudden bursts that hurt my ears.
- Usage
peaky can also describe something with sharp high points, especially in technical or specialist contexts
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- peakyadjective