Lankier is a comparative form of the adjective lanky, which means thin and tall. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈlæŋkijər/. This pronunciation guide shows that lankier is made up of three syllables, with stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced as "lang" with the "a" sound being similar to the "a" in cat. The second syllable is pronounced as "kee" with the "e" sound being similar to the "ee" in bee. The final syllable is pronounced as "yer" with the "y" sound being similar to the "i" in kid.
Lankier is an adjective that describes someone or something as being taller and thinner in appearance than average or expected. The term is derived from the root word "lanky," which means having long limbs and a lean or gaunt physique. Lankier specifically emphasizes a greater degree of slimness or elongation.
When referring to a person, lankier suggests an individual who possesses a more slender frame, often characterized by long limbs and a stretched-out appearance. These individuals usually have an extended reach or gait due to their elongated limbs, making them seem taller compared to others.
In relation to objects, lankier describes items or structures that exhibit a lengthy and slender form. It may be used to depict tall trees with long branches or buildings with a sleek, vertical structure.
The term lankier can also be metaphorically applied to abstract concepts like explanations or arguments. In this context, it suggests that the reasoning or points presented are stretched thin, lacking substance or depth.
Overall, lankier conveys the idea of something being elongated, slim, and taller than typical proportions. Whether used to describe a person, object, or concept, this term emphasizes an appearance or quality that is greater in length and thinness compared to the average or expected norm.
The word "lankier" is derived from the base word "lank", which dates back to Middle English. "Lank" originally meant "slender" or "thin" and can be traced to Old Norse "hlakkr", meaning "loose" or "slack". This term was later adopted into Old English as "hlanc" with the same meaning. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation evolved to "lank" with the same meaning. The suffix "-ier" is added to "lank" to form the comparative form "lankier", which denotes something or someone even more slender or thin.