smoky

American  

[smoh-kee] / ˈsmoʊ ki /

Also smokey

adjective

smokier, smokiest

1. emitting smoke, especially in large amounts.

2. hazy; darkened or begrimed with smoke.

3. having the character or appearance of smoke.

   smoky colors.

4. pertaining to or suggestive of smoke.

   a smoky haze.

5. of a dull or brownish gray; cloudy.

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smoky British  

/ ˈsməʊkɪ /

adjective

1. emitting, containing, or resembling smoke

2. emitting smoke excessively or in the wrong place

   a smoky fireplace

3. of or tinged with the colour smoke

   a smoky cat

4. having the flavour of having been cured by smoking

5. made dark, dirty, or hazy by smoke

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Other Word Forms

• smokily
  adverb
• smokiness
  noun
• unsmokily
  adverb
• unsmokiness
  noun
• unsmoky
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of smoky

A Middle English word dating back to 1275–1325; see origin at smoke, -y ¹

Example Sentences

It disappears seamlessly into the lentils, turning them creamy, smoky and rich with almost no effort at all.

From Salon • May 19, 2026

Models emerged from the smoky haze in effervescent hues of yellow, purple, and orange.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

Seeds are visible among the chopped roasted chiles, smoky and vegetal and bringing some heat, overlaid with a single square of American cheese melted into place.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

The offerings include returning items, such as a smoky burger and chicken sandwich, plus a new side — mac and cheese.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 29, 2026

Immediately I smell the smoky kitchen of the steak house crowded with visitors just pulling off the I-5 for dinner.

From "A Step from Heaven" by An Na

Related Words

• burning
• dingy
• silvery
• smoldering
• thick