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.
Using a small scrub brush, scrape out any gunk that's built in your P-trap. — Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 21 May 2026 Using a small stiff brush, clean out any gunk or debris in the screen door’s tracks. — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026 Plus, the liner is easy to de-gunk after trips with soap and water (or a good hose-down). — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 15 June 2026 Your pores might be congested with gunk or product residue, so double-cleansing can make all the difference. — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 23 June 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 8 Jul. 2026.

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