ickier; ickiest
: offensive to the senses or sensibilities : distasteful
put off by her icky tritenessRenata Adler
ickiness noun

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
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.
If talking about age feels too icky, think of it more in terms of revivifying the party’s ideas and approach to meet the moment. Michelle Cottle, Mercury News, 29 May 2025 Plus, Devon’s dad and his dementia get played for laughs in a way that feels icky. Dave Nemetz, TVLine, 22 May 2025 Plus, it’s made without 15 common potentially icky nail polish ingredients. Siena Gagliano, Allure, 5 Mar. 2025 Sweet Chamomile Dog Deodorizing Spritz The Dog Deodorizing Spritz is a no-rinse product designed to be sprayed directly on your furry friend's coat to knock back icky smells. Kathy Barnes, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for icky

Word History

Etymology

perhaps baby talk alteration of sticky

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of icky was in 1929

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Icky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/icky. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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