Peaky

/ˈpiːki/ adjective

Definition

Looking unhealthy, pale, or sickly, or resembling a peak or pointed shape.

Etymology

From 'peak,' suggesting someone is thin or pointed like a peak, or peaked with illness. British English usage mainly refers to appearing ill, from 19th-century dialect.

Kelly Says

This word perfectly captures that Victorian concern about looking 'peaked'—back then, pale and thin meant you'd been studying too hard or fighting disease, which doctors actually took seriously.

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