icky

adjective

ˈi-kē 

ickier; ickiest

: offensive to the senses or sensibilities : distasteful

had an icky smell

… put off by her icky triteness …

—Renata Adler

ickiness

ˈi-kē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of icky

• unpleasant
• harsh
• unpleasing
• bad
• nasty
• ugly
• sour
• horrible
• disgusting

Examples of icky in a Sentence

The trail was icky with mud.

the novel has an icky sentimentality that makes my skin crawl

Recent Examples on the Web

However, this year, according to The New York Post, local dispensaries are even delivering some sticky icky to tennis fans. — Matt Reigle Outkick, FOXNews.com, 4 Sep. 2026

The show uses this space to explore increasingly icky terrain. — Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 3 Sep. 2026

In Portland, the squabble between the city and the Trail Blazers feels icky and wholly unnecessary. — Chris Branch, New York Times, 23 July 2026

But our wedding, that like really just felt icky. — Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 18 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

perhaps baby talk alteration of sticky

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above