dorky
word
Definition
Describes someone or something that is socially awkward, uncool, or strange in a silly or unfashionable way. Usually said in a light or playful manner, not to be harsh.
Usage & Nuances
'Dorky' is informal and mildly teasing; it can sound affectionate or mocking depending on the tone. Commonly describes appearance ('dorky glasses'), behavior, or style. Softer than 'nerdy' or 'geeky'; focus is on awkwardness or lack of coolness. Avoid using seriously as an insult.
Spanish: ñoño - nerd - tonto (coloquial)Portuguese (BR): cafona - bobo (gíria) - nerdPortuguese (PT): totó - tonto (gíria) - nerdChinese (Simplified): 呆呆的 - 土气的 - 傻气的Chinese (Traditional): 呆呆的 - 土氣的 - 傻氣的Hindi: बेवकूफ़ी वाला - अजीब (स्लैंग) - नीरदArabic: غريب (عامية) - أخرق - محرجBengali: বোকাসোকা - হাস্যকরভাবে আনকুলRussian: лузерский - нелепый (в шутливом смысле)Japanese: ダサいVietnamese: ngố - ngớ ngẩn (một cách dễ thương)Korean: 촌스럽다 - 어색하다 (귀엽거나 장난스럽게)Turkish: salakça - garip (şakacı şekilde)Urdu: بونگا - معصومانہ مضحکہ خیزIndonesian: norak - canggung (dengan cara lucu)
Example Sentences
He's wearing a dorky sweater.
basic
My dorky dance moves make everyone laugh.
basic
She smiled at his dorky jokes.
basic
I know these glasses look dorky, but I love them.
natural
Don’t worry about being dorky—just have fun!
natural
His dorky sense of humor is actually kind of cute.
natural