punk Hear it!

punk1 definition

☆ punk (puŋk)

noun

any substance, as decayed wood, that smolders when ignited, used as tinder; esp., a chemically treated fungous substance shaped into slender, fragile, light-brown sticks: the glowing tips are used to light fireworks, etc.

Etymology: prob. var. of spunk

punk2 definition

punk (puŋk)

noun

  1. Obsolete a prostitute
  2. ☆ Slang
    1. catamite
    2. a male homosexual
    3. a young hoodlum
    4. any person, esp. a youngster, regarded as inexperienced, insignificant, presumptuous, etc.
    1. punk rock
    2. a style, originating among fans of punk rock, characterized by motley clothes, oddly clipped hair, etc.

Etymology: Early ModE slang < ?

adjective

  1. ☆ Slang poor or bad in condition, quality, etc.
  2. of or having to do with punk rock or the style called punk

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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