slimsy

adjective

slim·​sy ˈslim-zē  ˈslim(p)-sē 

variants or slimpsy

: flimsy, frail

Did you know?

The reasons why some words flourish and others fall by the lexical wayside are often unclear, but what is clear is that slimsy is firmly in the latter category: it has very little current use. This doesn't have to stop you from using it though; slimsy is a blend of slim and flimsy, and its meaning should be pretty much apparent to your audience if you're careful with the context. The word was first used in the mid-19th century and was at its peak of popularity in the early 20th. Who knows? Maybe the 21st century will see its revival.

Word History

Etymology

blend of slim and flimsy

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!