spindly

adjective

spin·​dly ˈspin(d)-lē 

ˈspin-dᵊl-ē

spindlier; spindliest

1

: of a disproportionately tall or long and thin appearance that often suggests physical weakness

spindly legs

2

: frail or flimsy in appearance or structure

a spindly tower

Synonyms of spindly

• gaunt
• skinny
• lanky
• thin
• gangling
• bony
• gangly
• slender

Examples of spindly in a Sentence

spindly, underfed dogs roamed the poverty-stricken village

Recent Examples on the Web

The towering incense cedars, stout black oak trees and spindly pines were cloaked in the ornaments of moisture, dangling like tiny decorations on a holiday tree. —Ernie Cowan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Jan. 2026

This large mammal walked on long, spindly limbs — almost like a modern ungulate, such as a horse or zebra — yet its legs ended in massive, hooked claws. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 18 Jan. 2026

Focus on removing crossing, touching, weak, or misshapen branches that grow upwards or downwards into other layers, and remove twiggy, spindly growth down the trunk. —Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 18 Jan. 2026

Leaving mats on too long or allowing seedling roots to get too warm can result in weak plant stems and spindly growth. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spindly

adjective

spin·​dly ˈspin-(d)lē 

-dᵊl-ē

spindlier; spindliest

: of a tall or long and thin appearance that often suggests physical weakness

spindly legs