Definition

Describing something that has small folds or wrinkles, often giving it a textured appearance.

Example

The crinkly paper made a satisfying sound when I opened the gift.

Conversation

Have you seen that old map I found?

Yeah, it's so crinkly! How did it get like that?

I think it was just rolled up for years in a drawer.

That makes sense! It adds character to it, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Crinkly is formed from "crinkle" (of uncertain origin, possibly imitative of the sound of crumpling) and the suffix "-y" (meaning characterized by). The word describes something that is characterized by small, tight folds or wrinkles.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has small, tight folds or wrinkles, like a piece of paper that has been crumpled — that's what crinkly means.

Visually Confused Words