easy
The glue was still tacky after ten minutes.
What does Tacky mean?
sticky, or not stylish in a pleasing way.
Dictionary definition
Tacky describes something sticky to the touch, or something that shows poor taste or style.
Example sentences
Tacky in a sentence
medium
The costume looked tacky because it had too many clashing colors.
hard
Writers use tacky carefully because it can describe texture or a judgment about style.
Writing practice
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Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Tacky
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does tacky mean?
Tacky can describe a sticky surface or something that looks poorly styled.
Practice 2
Which word or phrase is closest in meaning to tacky?
Sticky is close when tacky describes a surface that clings slightly.
Practice 3
Which word or phrase is a useful contrast for tacky?
Tasteful is a contrast when tacky means lacking good style.
Practice complete
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You completed 3 questions.
Pronunciation coach
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Tacky
Voice settings
Sounds like
tak · ee · strongest beat: tak
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordTacky.
Partadjective.
MeaningTacky means sticky, or not stylish in a pleasing way.
ExampleExample: The glue was still tacky after ten minutes.
Word breakdown
2 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- tak · ee
- Strongest beat
- tak
- Ending
- ee
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on tak.
Your turn
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Synonyms
Words like Tacky
Antonyms
Opposite words
Synonym practice
Want to practice tacky synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "The glue still felt tacky after five minutes," then compare close word choices. Practice tacky synonyms.
Word family
Tacky word family
Base word
tacky
adjective
tacky
Sticky or showing poor taste.
adjective
tackier
More tacky.
adjective
tackiest
Most tacky.
noun
tackiness
The quality of being sticky or poorly styled.
Related words
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Learning activities
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