grunge

noun

ˈgrənj 

1

: one that is grungy

2

: rock music incorporating elements of punk rock and heavy metal

also : the untidy fashions typical of fans of grunge

grunger

ˈgrən-jər

noun

Examples of grunge in a Sentence

I'm a fan of grunge.

I cleared the grunge out of the drains.

Recent Examples on the Web

In 1992, Jacobs presented what is now known as his grunge collection for Perry Ellis. — José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 18 Aug. 2026

Yesterday’s punk, grunge, and rebel-outsider upstarts have an uncanny way of evolving into today’s elder statesmen of respectable infamy. — Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 17 Aug. 2026

As a prime example of grunge-girl hair, era icon Alexa Chung has perfected the balance between rumpled and refined. — Calin Van Paris, InStyle, 9 Aug. 2026

The guitarist enjoys punk, grunge, Chappell Roan, Katy Perry’s earlier songs, and Halsey. — Jae-Ha Kim, Rolling Stone, 29 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from grungy

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for grunge

• lunge
• plunge
• sponge
• expunge
• muskellunge