WordGarden.ioswanky
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /swˈæŋki/
US
- /ˈswɑŋki/
Meanings
Adjective
stylish, expensive-looking, and somewhat showy in an upscale way
Beyond the definition
If something is swanky, it looks rich, stylish, and a little showy. Think of an expensive hotel, a smart rooftop bar, or an apartment building with a glossy lobby and a doorman. It is not just nice or comfortable. It feels designed to impress.
Imagine walking into a place with soft lighting, polished marble, and people dressed for a night out. That is a swanky scene. The word is often used in a playful way, and it can suggest that something is elegant, fashionable, and maybe a bit too concerned with looking expensive.
The word swanky describes something that looks expensive, fashionable, and polished. It is often used for places, clothes, events, cars, or neighborhoods that give off a rich and stylish feeling. A swanky hotel lobby, a swanky restaurant, or a swanky party usually feels carefully designed to make people notice it.
It does not simply mean "good" or "comfortable." A place can be warm and pleasant without being swanky. This word adds the idea of visible style, money, and social image. When people use it, they often mean that something looks modern, elegant, and clearly above the ordinary.
Picture arriving at a rooftop lounge with a city view, shining glass walls, soft music, and staff in sharp uniforms. That kind of setting can be called swanky. In the same way, someone might talk about a swanky apartment tower, a swanky wedding venue, or a swanky new car with a sleek interior.
The tone of the word can change a little depending on context. Sometimes it is fully positive and shows admiration. Sometimes it has a mild edge and suggests that something is trying a bit hard to look rich or important. If a person says a place is swanky, they may mean it is impressive, but they may also be hinting that it feels a little too polished or showy.
Overall, swanky is a lively word for something that feels stylish, upscale, and meant to impress.
Examples
- 1
Restaurant
They booked a table at a swanky rooftop restaurant downtown.
- 2
Housing
She lives in a swanky apartment overlooking the river.
- 3
Clothing
He showed up in a swanky suit and acted like a celebrity.
- Usage
often slightly disapproving: it can suggest something looks expensive or too showy
- 4
Practical contrast
We don't need a swanky gym; we just need one that's clean and close to home.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- swankyadjective