Definitions

tacky

[tak-ee] / ˈtæk i /

ADJECTIVE

cheap, tasteless

Synonyms

STRONGEST

dingy faded gaudy messy run down seedy shabby sleazy threadbare vulgar

WEAK

broken-down crude dilapidated dowdy down-at-heel frumpy inelegant mangy nasty out-of-date outmoded poky ratty shoddy sloppy slovenly stodgy unbecoming unkempt unstylish unsuitable untidy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

nice refined respectable

WEAK

classy expensive tasteful

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.

One problem, though: Untreated rubber becomes brittle when exposed to cold, and tacky and runny when hot.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Displays of it, particularly in architecture or public art, are often perceived as tacky, kitschy or, heaven forbid, nouveau riche.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

India, the defending champions, posted a fighting 175-7 after they were sent in to bat on a tacky R. Premadasa stadium pitch before they routed Pakistan for 114.

From Barron's • Feb. 15, 2026

Chinese wellness practices, once associated with the tacky and geriatric, have suddenly found themselves in vogue, largely among Americans.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

It was still the same tacky, horrible place.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

Vocabulary lists containing tacky

Bridge to Terabithia

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Coraline

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!