achy

American  

[ey-kee] / ˈeɪ ki /

adjective

achier, achiest

1. having or causing an aching sensation.

   an achy back.

---

achy British  

/ ˈeɪkɪ /

adjective

1. affected by a continuous dull pain; aching

---

Other Word Forms

• achiness
  noun

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

Among this year’s participants was WSJ’s achy, blistered Xavier Martinez.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

"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

It seems Billy Ray Cyrus doesn’t have an achy breaky heart with his new flame: British actor-model Elizabeth Hurley.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2025

My eyes prickle with tears—I feel so achy and happy and strange.

From "What If It's Us" by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera