How Do You Spell HANKYPANKY?

Pronunciation: [hˈaŋkɪpˌaŋki] (IPA)

The word "hankypanky" is spelled with a "y" instead of an "ie" as some may expect. This is because the word is pronounced with a long "a" sound, represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /eɪ/. When the letter "y" follows this sound in English, it typically takes the place of the letters "ie." Hence, "hankypanky" is spelled as such to reflect its pronunciation, /ˈhæŋkiˌpæŋki/. This delightedly playful word describes mischievous or illicit behavior, typically involving romantic or sexual activity.

HANKYPANKY Meaning and Definition

1. Hankypanky is a noun that refers to dishonest or suspicious activity, particularly in a secretive or clandestine manner. It can also describe mischievous behavior or trickery. This term is often used informally and has a connotation of playful or illicit behavior.

   The word "hankypanky" originates from the combination of the words "hanky," which is a colloquial term for a handkerchief, and "panky," which originates from the word "pank," meaning to frolic or play pranks. The juxtaposition of these words suggests a connection between clandestine behavior and playful mischief.

   Hankypanky is usually associated with activities that may involve deception, deceit, or dubious intentions. It can apply to various situations, such as secret affairs, shady business transactions, or any behavior that involves trickery or misrepresentation.

   While the term often implies secretive or dubious behavior, it can also be used in a lighthearted manner to describe harmless pranks or playful antics. In this context, hankypanky can refer to mischievous behavior that is meant to entertain or surprise others.

   Overall, "hankypanky" is a versatile term that encompasses a range of activities involving secrecy, trickery, and playful behavior. Its usage can vary depending on the context and the intention behind the action being described.

Common Misspellings for HANKYPANKY

• hanky panky
• hanky-pankey
• hankeypankey
• gankypanky
• bankypanky
• nankypanky
• jankypanky
• uankypanky
• yankypanky
• hznkypanky
• hsnkypanky
• hwnkypanky
• hqnkypanky
• habkypanky
• hamkypanky
• hajkypanky
• hahkypanky
• hanjypanky
• hanmypanky
• hanlypanky

Etymology of HANKYPANKY

The word "hankypanky" is believed to have emerged in the early 19th century, primarily in British English. Its etymology consists of two possible origins:

1. "Hanky": The term "hanky" is a colloquial abbreviation of the word "handkerchief", which refers to a small piece of fabric used for wiping or blowing one's nose. The use of "hanky" symbolizes something manipulative or sneaky happening under the cover of a handkerchief. This association is seen in other expressions like "hanky-panky tricks" or "pulling something out of one's hanky".

2. "Panky": The origin of "panky" is uncertain, but it is believed to be a playful alteration of the word "prank". "Panky" can be traced to the slang term "pank", meaning to playfully humiliate or trick someone.

Idioms with the word HANKYPANKY

• hankypanky "Hankypanky" is a term used to describe secret or improper behavior, especially of a sexual nature. It refers to actions that are done sneakily or deceitfully, often with a sense of mischief or illicitness.

Similar spelling words for HANKYPANKY

• gangplank,
• hankering,
• hangnail,
• hanging,
• honking,
• hang up,
• hong kong.