gunk

noun

ˈgəŋk How to pronounce gunk (audio)
Synonyms of gunknext
: filthy, sticky, or greasy matter
gunky
ˈgəŋ-kē How to pronounce gunk (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of gunk

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Examples of gunk in a Sentence

The engine was all full of gunk. I need to wipe this gunk off my hands.
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.
At some point, all that will be left is the gunk at the bottom of the storage containers, and physics will prevent the oil from flowing through those critical pipelines. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026 Regularly clean the filter and drain trap to remove lint, gunk, and standing water. — Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 3 Aug. 2026 Unlike traditional styling products, this stuff won’t coat your hair in heavy gunk and instead features nourishing skincare-grade ingredients to support scalp and hair health while also providing plenty of lift for a lightly teased effect. — Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 28 July 2026 The gunk Bondurant observed was likely didymo disturbed off the bottom of the river by people swimming and walking around. — Hannah Smith july 25, Idaho Statesman, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for gunk

Word History

Etymology

from Gunk, trademark for a cleaning solvent

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gunk was in 1946

Phrases Containing gunk

Browse Nearby Words

gunja
gunk
gunkhole
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Cite this Entry

“Gunk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gunk. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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