swanky

[swang-kee]

adjective

swankier, swankiest 

1. elegant or ostentatious; swank. swink.

   Synonyms: fashionable, smart, chic, stylish

swanky

/ ˈswæŋkɪ /

adjective

1. expensive and showy; stylish

   a swanky hotel

2. boastful or conceited

Other Word Forms

• swankily adverb
• swankiness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of swanky¹

First recorded in 1835–45; swank ¹ + -y ¹

Example Sentences

The swanky luxury drama “The White Lotus” and the sharp Hollywood satire “The Studio,” also from HBO and Apple TV+, respectively, followed with 23 nominations apiece.

From Los Angeles Times

For decades, the Indian elite have sought escape in Raj-era private clubs and gymkhanas, scattered around the swankiest neighbourhoods in the country's big cities, hillside resorts and cantonment towns.

From BBC

She’d like us to believe she’s on the verge of living out some swanky romantic fantasy, but a flashback to her recent past in New York tells another story.

From Salon

This isn’t a steakhouse or a swanky supper club — it’s BBQ.

From Salon

But not at the Love Hotel, aka the swanky resort that producers have turned into a “Bachelor in Paradise”-esque setting for Housewives to get their groove back during the off-season.

From Salon

Related Words

• classy 
• deluxe 
• fancy 
• fashionable 
• luxurious 
• posh 
• ritzy 
• splashy 
• stylish 
• sumptuous 
• swank 
• trendy 

When To Use

What does swanky mean?

Swanky means fancy, stylish, or classy, especially in a showy or expensive way. It is often used informally.Swanky can refer to something that is ostentatious (over the top) or something that is very elegant. Either way, the unifying element is fanciness.Example: Anna doesn’t usually get a chance to eat at fancy restaurants, so she really enjoyed the gourmet food at the swanky office party.