skookum
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈskuːkəm/
KK: /ˈskuːkəm/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is big, strong, or excellent; often used to express reliability or impressive qualities.
Example
The skookum tree stood tall and strong against the storm.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: skookumer
Superlative: skookumest
Conversation
Did you see that new bike I got?
Yeah, it looks really skookum!
Thanks! I wanted something that could handle rough terrain.
You definitely made a great choice; it seems super reliable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
strong
excellent
impressive
Antonyms
weak
inferior
unreliable
noun
Definition
A type of doll or a mythical creature often described as a giant or evil spirit from folklore.
Example
The children played with their skookum dolls, inspired by the legendary woodland monster.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a skookum?
No, what’s that?
It's a type of doll based on a mythical woodland monster.
Root Explanation
Skookum originates from Chinook Jargon, where it means strong or powerful. The term is often used in the Pacific Northwest to describe something that is impressive or excellent.
Memory Tip
Think of the Chinook word for strong or powerful, and remember that 'skookum' describes something impressive or excellent.
Visually Confused Words
kokum