Funk

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/fʌŋk/

Definitions

• Noun: A state of depression or low mood; a feeling of being down or out of sorts.
• Verb: To avoid or retreat from something due to fear or apprehension.
• Music (noun): A genre of music, characterized by a strong rhythm section and elements of jazz, soul, and R&B.
• Adjective: Describes something that has a strong, often unpleasant, odor or quality.

Usage Examples

• He's been in a real funk lately, and nothing seems to cheer him up.
• They funked out of the meeting because they were afraid of the consequences.
• The band played a funky tune that got everyone dancing.
• The room had a funky smell after the rain.

Etymology

Late 16th century, from the Middle English "funk" meaning "a stench," derived from the Old French "funke" meaning "a stink" or "smoke." The musical sense of the word "funk" appeared in the 1960s, influenced by the African-American jazz and soul music scene.

Synonyms

• Discomfort
• Blues
• Groove
• Stench
• Jive

Antonyms

• Happiness
• Joy
• Confidence
• Cleanliness

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In parts of the southern United States, the "u" sound may be pronounced more like "ah": /fahŋk/.
• In some African countries, "funk" may be pronounced with a sharper "k" sound: /fʌnk/ with more emphasis on the consonant.

Historical Usage

The word "funk" has evolved over time. In the late 16th century, it referred to a "stink" or unpleasant odor. By the 20th century, it took on new meanings, especially in the 1960s, when it was used to describe a genre of music. The association with depression or fear (as in "in a funk") also developed in the 20th century.

Cultural Nuances

In music, particularly in African-American culture, "funk" is more than just a genre; it embodies a particular rhythm, groove, and attitude that has shaped many other forms of music, including R&B and hip-hop. The term "funk" also has strong associations with empowerment, community, and expression in African-American culture.

More Information

Funk music, originating in the late 1960s, focuses on rhythm and groove rather than melody or harmony, using bass lines, rhythmic guitar, and brass instruments. Artists like James Brown, George Clinton, and Sly Stone are pivotal to the genre's development. The word "funk" also entered common usage to describe a state of being in a low mood or feeling down, reflecting a sense of retreat or avoidance. Today, "funk" can describe both a type of music and an emotional state, and its influence on modern pop culture remains significant.