variants also flakey
as in crisp
having a texture that readily breaks into little pieces under pressure a tender but flaky crust on the pastry

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of flaky Rotting Boards Raised bed frames made of wood can start to rot, causing the wood to feel mushy, flaky, or collapse entirely. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 June 2025 Some people with very inflamed, sensitive, or flaky skin prefer gentler, creamy washes, while others who get very oily may prefer a foamier formula. Moisturizers and sunscreens with thinner, gel-like consistencies also feel lighter on the skin. Alisa Hrustic, SELF, 16 June 2025 To me, some really nicely roasted almonds, just kind of olive oily roasted almonds with just some flaky salt and not much else. Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 June 2025 During peak season, thousands of bureks—a flaky Balkan pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach—are made daily. Jenn Rice, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for flaky
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flaky
Adjective
  • Alba paired the dress with a set of crisp white sneakers and carried a small white bag to coordinate with her footwear.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 1 July 2025
  • Her finishing technique is crisp and clean, while her line-breaking passes are well-timed and weighted.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • Like a brittle leaf spiraling down a garden path, or the last cigarette passed between friends.
    arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 5 July 2025
  • In extreme cold, the plastic frames can become brittle and break.
    Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flaky.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flaky. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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