Punk

Definition

Punk primarily denotes a youth movement of the late 1970s, characterized by anti-establishment views, distinctive clothing, and loud, aggressive music. The term can also refer to an inexperienced or young person, or a type of wood used for fuel.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pʌŋk/
• Respelling: PUNK (with "PUN" as in "fun," and "K" as a hard k sound)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pʌŋk/
• Respelling: PUNK (similar to American English, with "PUN" as in "fun," and "K" as a hard k sound)

In both dialects, "punk" is pronounced with a single, clear syllable, emphasizing the crisp "K" sound at the end. The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The term "punk" was originally used in the 16th century, meaning "prostitute". By the early 20th century, it evolved to describe a young male hustler or a young male partner of a homosexual. By the 1970s, "punk" became associated with the youth countercultural movement, focusing on anti-establishment views and specific music genre.

Derivatives

• Punk rock
• Punker
• Punkish
• Punky
• Cyberpunk

Synonyms

• Rebel
• Nonconformist
• Maverick

Antonyms

• Conformist
• Traditionalist
• Mainstream

Usage

The word "punk" can be used in a variety of contexts. In music and culture, it refers to a specific countercultural movement. In colloquial usage, it can describe someone seen as inexperienced, insignificant, or contemptible.

Related Terms

• Anarchy
• Subculture
• DIY (Do It Yourself)
• Underground

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A youth belonging to the punk subculture, especially in the late 1970s, known for its distinctive style, rebellious attitude, and punk rock music.
• Example: Joey Ramone was a prominent figure in the punk scene.

• An inexperienced person, especially in a particular job or activity.
• Example: He's just a punk who doesn't know what he's talking about.

• A type of wood that is used as tinder.
• Example: We used dry punk to start the campfire.

Adjective

• Relating to punk rock and its associated subculture.
• Example: Her punk hairstyle attracted a lot of attention.

• Of poor quality or worthless.
• Example: The product was punk and broke within days.