funk

funk · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A style of popular dance music of African American origin, characterized by a strong rhythm and bass line.

  2. 2.

    (Informal) A state of depression or fear; a gloomy mood.

  3. 3.

    A strong, unpleasant smell.

Forms

plural: funks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in a funk — feeling depressed or anxious
  • •
    get out of a funk — to recover from a depressed state

Related words

Antonyms: cheerfulness, elation
See also: depression, funky, groove, soul
Synonyms: depression, groove, slump

Etymology

The musical sense emerged from African American slang in the mid-20th century, possibly from Kikongo lu-funki ("bad body odor"). The sense of depression may be related to Flemish fonck ("disturbance, agitation").