gunk

noun

ˈgəŋk How to pronounce gunk (audio)
Synonyms of gunknext
: filthy, sticky, or greasy matter
gunky
ˈgəŋ-kē How to pronounce gunk (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of gunk

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Examples of gunk in a Sentence

The engine was all full of gunk. I need to wipe this gunk off my hands.
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.
Keep used dryer sheets handy to keep surfaces dust- and gunk-free. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 4 Oct. 2026 But there’s another 45 supremely indulgent auteur gunk that is snicker-worthy. — Abid Rahman, HollywoodReporter, 14 Sep. 2026 Worse still, gunk and staining on shelves can be off-putting. — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2026 It’s also packed with a slew of cleansing agents that are known for effectively sloughing away gunk while being gentle enough not to damage the skin barrier. — Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gunk

Word History

Etymology

from Gunk, trademark for a cleaning solvent

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gunk was in 1946

Phrases Containing gunk

Browse Nearby Words

gunja
gunk
gunkhole
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Cite this Entry

“Gunk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gunk. Accessed 7 Oct. 2026.

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