First Known Use: 1623
Dictionary
1funk
noun \ˈfəŋk\
Definition of FUNK
: a strong offensive smell
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Origin of FUNK
probably ultimately from French dialect (Picard) funquer to give off smoke
2funk
verb
Definition of FUNK
intransitive verb
: to become frightened and shrink back
transitive verb
1
: to be afraid of : dread
2
: to shrink from undertaking or facing
First Known Use of FUNK
circa 1739
3funk
noun
Definition of FUNK
1
a : a state of paralyzing fear b : a depressed state of mind
3
: slump 1 <an economic funk> <the team went into a funk>
Origin of FUNK
perhaps from obsolete Dutch dialect (Flanders) fonck
First Known Use: 1743
4funk
noun
Definition of FUNK
1
: music that combines elements of rhythm and blues and soul music and that is characterized by a percussive vocal style, static harmonies, and a strong bass line with heavy downbeats
2
: the quality or state of being funky <jeans … have lost much of their funk — Tom Wolfe>
Origin of FUNK
back-formation from 2funky
First Known Use: 1959
Funk
biographical name \ˈfu̇ŋk, ˈfəŋk\
Definition of FUNK
Casimir 1884–1967 Am. (Pol.-born) biochem.
Funk
biographical name \ˈfəŋk\
Definition of FUNK
Isaac Kauffman 1839–1912 Am. editor & publisher
FUNK Defined for Kids
funk
noun \ˈfəŋk\
Definition of FUNK for Kids
: a sad or worried state <Bad luck left him in a funk.>
Learn More About FUNK
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Seen & Heard
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