cranny

noun

cran·​ny ˈkra-nē How to pronounce cranny (audio)
plural crannies
Synonyms of crannynext
1
: a small break or slit : crevice
2
: an obscure nook or corner
crannied adjective

Examples of cranny in a Sentence

We saw strange, colorful creatures in the crannies of the reef while scuba diving. We explored every cranny of the old castle.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition, the stair tool and combination tool help get into all the nooks and crannies of your house for top-to-bottom cleaning. Cierra Cowan, PC Magazine, 19 Mar. 2026 Multiple seating and dining areas are found scattered among the tropical landscaping, taking advantage of all the little nooks and crannies on the grounds. Tori Latham, Robb Report, 19 Mar. 2026 This wand helps reach into nooks and crannies for a more accurate reading. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 18 Mar. 2026 The teeth dig into the nooks and crannies of the host animal's skin, while the lip forms an airtight, watertight seal. Ben Coxworth march 11, New Atlas, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cranny

Word History

Etymology

Middle English crany, from Middle French cren, cran notch

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cranny was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cranny.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cranny. Accessed 21 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

cranny

noun
cran·​ny ˈkran-ē How to pronounce cranny (audio)
plural crannies
: a small break or slit (as in a cliff)

More from Merriam-Webster on cranny

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