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Synonyms

folksy

American  
[fohk-see] / ˈfoʊk si /

adjective

folksier, folksiest
  1. friendly or neighborly; sociable.

  2. very informal; familiar; unceremonious.

    The politician affected a folksy style.

  3. belonging to the common people, especially in regard to a conscious use of mannerisms, speech patterns, attitudes, etc..

    folksy humor.


folksy British  
/ ˈfəʊksɪ /

adjective

  1. of or like ordinary people; sometimes used derogatorily to describe affected simplicity

  2. informal friendly; affable

  3. of or relating to folk art

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • folksiness noun

Etymology

Origin of folksy

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55; folks + -y 1,

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In arguing his case for punitive damages, Kaley's attorney Mark Lanier - a folksy Texas litigator - had shown the jury a jar of M&Ms.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

His genial demeanour and penchant for folksy parables belie a past as a wily guerrilla fighter and ruthless political survivor.

From Barron's • Jan. 12, 2026

It’s how the sport has gone ruthlessly pro—but people still act like it’s some folksy campus endeavor when it suits their motives.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 1, 2025

Superficially, Newby’s campaign seemed folksy — one of his slogans was “Scooby-dooby, vote for Newby” — but it was backed by serious money.

From Salon • Oct. 31, 2025

Fred played the guitar for her, and sang, his voice husky, and told her how his dream was to be a lead singer in a folksy band.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie