slinky

adjective

ˈsliŋ-kē How to pronounce slinky (audio)
slinkier; slinkiest
1
: characterized by slinking : stealthily quiet
slinky movements
2
: sleek and sinuous in movement or outline
especially : following the lines of the figure in a gracefully flowing manner
a slinky evening gown
slinkily
ˈsliŋ-kə-lē How to pronounce slinky (audio)
adverb
slinkiness
ˈsliŋ-kē-nəs How to pronounce slinky (audio)
noun

Examples of slinky in a Sentence

The dancers wore slinky costumes.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Vaccarello, whose spring 2027 show marked his 10th anniversary at Saint Laurent, has become a celebrity favorite thanks to his ability to telegraph power and sexuality through sheer, slinky gowns and sharp-shouldered suits with equal measure. — Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026 Lowen selects a slinky red Versace safety-pin slip dress, reminiscent of Verity’s earlier first-meet gown, and presumably blow-dries her long, dark brown hair and bangs into a sleeker, sultrier style. — Fawnia Soo Hoo, Allure, 5 Oct. 2026 Judging by the looks on display that night, the brand’s slinky, minimalist vibe is still hitting the right note. — Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 3 Oct. 2026 For that occasion, Zoë paired a slinky scarlet gown with a matching belt and pumps, wearing her dark hair in a sleek bun. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 25 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for slinky

Word History

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of slinky was in 1918

Rhymes for slinky

See All Rhymes for slinky

Browse Nearby Words

slinkweed
slinky
slip
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Slinky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/slinky. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

slinky

adjective
ˈsliŋ-kē How to pronounce slinky (audio)
slinkier; slinkiest
1
: sneakily quiet
slinky movements
2
: following the lines of the figure in a gracefully flowing manner
slinky dresses
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