achy

American  

[ey-kee] / ˈeɪ ki /

adjective

• achier,
  comparative
• achiest
  superlative

1. having or causing an aching sensation.

   an achy back.

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achy British  

/ ˈeɪkɪ /

adjective

1. affected by a continuous dull pain; aching

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• achiness
  noun

Inflected Forms

Adjectives

• achier
  comparative
• achiest
  superlative

Etymology

Origin of achy

First recorded in 1870–75; ache + -y ¹

Explanation

If you're achy, your body hurts. A new boxer will undoubtedly feel achy after her first match. When your feet are achy, they have a dull pain, possibly from wearing those brand new high heeled shoes. Some people feel achy all over when they get the flu, or after working out at the gym. The first use of the adjective achy was in a letter written by the novelist George Eliot in 1875, but its most well-known use is probably in country singer Billy Ray Cyrus's hit song "Achy Breaky Heart."

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

achy achier

Growing older has plenty of upsides – but achy joints is not one of them.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 16, 2026

Now, what tired, achy, occasionally dyspeptic middle-aged person doesn’t like the sound of that?

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 7, 2025

"Even if I can't play football again, even if I can't go for a run again, I don't want to have a dull, achy pain in my chest."

From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2025

I liken this to waiting in line for a rollercoaster: Hours of anticipation and achy legs for a three-minute rush.

From Salon ● Oct. 11, 2025

He felt achy, like he’d been running, and all his muscles were used up.

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste

When Smith was heavier — and, as he admitted, more sluggish and achier — he moved steadily up the minor league ladder, always hitting for average, though never displaying the power of a true slugger.

From New York Times ● Aug. 29, 2018

Granted, they’re older and achier, and Dan now sleeps with a mask for sleep apnea.

From New York Times ● Mar. 26, 2018