Definition

In a way that is tall and thin, often with long limbs.

Example

He walked lankily across the room, his long legs making him look awkward.

Conversation

Did you see how he walked into the room?

Yeah, he moved so lankily it was almost funny.

I know, right? It looked like he was trying to avoid bumping into things.

Exactly! I couldn't help but laugh a little.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lankily → It is formed from "lank" (from Old English "lanca", meaning thin or slender) and "-ily" (a suffix forming adverbs, meaning in a manner of). The word "lankily" means in a thin or slender manner.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'thin' ('lank') and doing something 'in a manner' ('-ily') that reflects that thinness.

Visually Confused Words