flunky

noun

flun·​ky ˈfləŋ-kē How to pronounce flunky (audio)
variants or less commonly flunkey or flunkie
plural flunkies also flunkeys
1
a
: a liveried servant
b
: one performing menial or miscellaneous duties
2

Examples of flunky in a Sentence

If he can't go himself, he'll send one of his flunkies. since I'm just the flunky who files his papers, I've no idea where he is
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.
Jin and his other flunkies excuse themselves, but Tetsu keeps Botan there to question him. Chris Klimek, Vulture, 24 July 2024 By quieting the clamor among the offended Giants, Mays was not acting as a flunky for his white manager. Aram Goudsouzian / Made By History, TIME, 25 June 2024 One fib could land him in jail with the rest of his flunkies. Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 25 May 2024 Lou’s father runs the town, sort of like a low-level mobster in a mob that only employs flunkies and toadies with nothing better to do. Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 13 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for flunky 

Word History

Etymology

Scots, of unknown origin

First Known Use

circa 1782, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of flunky was circa 1782

Dictionary Entries Near flunky

Cite this Entry

“Flunky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flunky. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

flunky

noun
flun·​ky
variants also flunkey or flunkie
ˈfləŋ-kē
plural flunkies also flunkeys
1
a
: a servant in livery
b
: a person who has simple or unskilled duties
2
: a person who flatters or constantly agrees with another in the hope of receiving favors

More from Merriam-Webster on flunky

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!