swank
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /swˈæŋk/
US
- /ˈswæŋk/
Description
- stylish & luxurious
- posh
- showy
- elegant
- upscale
"Swank" describes style that looks rich, polished, and a little showy. It often suggests money, comfort, and a wish to impress. You might use it for a hotel, a party, a restaurant, or a lifestyle that feels expensive and carefully designed. It is more than just nice or elegant; it has a clear sense of display. A simple, practical room would not usually be called swank, but a glossy penthouse or a sleek private lounge might be.
The word "swank" originally had a sense connected with swagger and showing off. Over time, it came to describe people, places, and things that look stylish, luxurious, and a bit proud of themselves. A swank hotel, a swank party, or a swank apartment is not just attractive; it gives the feeling of money, polish, and social display.
Compared with words like "fancy" or "elegant," "swank" adds more showiness. It often suggests that the style is meant to be noticed. Sometimes that tone is admiring, and sometimes it gently hints that the luxury is a little too much. The word can also be used as a noun for this kind of flashy style or expensive appearance: a place may have a lot of swank, or someone may enjoy the swank of high-end living. You would not usually use it for something plain, modest, or cozy. You use it when style, comfort, and status are all part of the picture.
Examples
- 1
Hotel
They booked a room in a swank hotel near the beach.
- 2
Clothing
She arrived in a swank black dress and everyone turned to look.
- 3
Appearance vs quality
The restaurant is very swank, but the food isn't actually that good.
Usage
swank can sound slightly critical, suggesting style and money more than comfort or quality
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- swanknounverbadjective
Forms
- swankspluralnounverbadjective