What Does “Swank” Mean

“Swank” means stylish, elegant, or impressive in a fancy way. It is often used to describe something that looks rich, fashionable, or polished.

People use “swank” when they want to talk about a place, person, outfit, or thing that feels a bit luxurious or showy. It can be positive, but sometimes it also suggests someone is trying too hard to look impressive.

Meaning & Usage

You might hear “swank” in everyday speech to describe a nice restaurant, a fancy hotel, or someone wearing a very stylish outfit. For example, people may say, “That’s a swank new apartment,” meaning it looks classy and expensive.

Examples

“They moved into a swank house near the beach.”

“He showed up in a swank suit and shiny shoes.”

“The restaurant has a swank, modern look.”

Is “swank” a compliment?

Usually, yes. It often means stylish or impressive. But depending on the tone, it can also sound a little sarcastic.

Can “swank” describe people?

Yes. It can describe someone who dresses or acts in a very fancy, polished, or showy way.

Is “swank” common in everyday English?

It is understood in English, but it is not used as often as words like “fancy,” “stylish,” or “elegant.”