Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈklæmi/ (IPA)

Definitions

• Adjective: Unpleasantly damp, sticky, or sweaty, often due to anxiety, fever, or humidity.
• Adjective: Referring to a cold, clammy feeling, especially when one is ill or experiencing nervousness.

Usage Examples

• "She felt clammy and weak, her skin cold and sticky to the touch."
• "The heat in the room made everyone feel clammy and uncomfortable."
• "He wiped his clammy hands on his pants before shaking hands with the guest."

Etymology

The word "clammy" comes from the word "clam," which originally referred to a type of mollusk with a sticky or slimy surface. Over time, the word was adopted to describe anything damp or sticky, especially when referring to the unpleasant feeling of moisture on the skin, often caused by nervousness or sickness. The term "clammy" has been in use since the 18th century.

Synonyms

• Sticky
• Damp
• Moist
• Sweaty
• Wet
• Chilly

Antonyms

• Dry
• Warm
• Comfortable

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, "clammy" is pronounced with more emphasis on the first syllable (CLAM-my), while in others, it may have a softer, more fluid sound. In areas with high humidity, the term may be used more frequently to describe the discomfort caused by the sticky, moist air.

Historical Usage

The word "clammy" has been used in English since the early 18th century to describe something damp or sticky. It was originally linked to the word "clam," referring to the mollusk, but over time came to describe a variety of damp, uncomfortable sensations. The word has remained popular, especially in relation to physical discomfort, illness, or environmental conditions that cause sticky perspiration.

Cultural Nuances

"Clammy" is often associated with feelings of anxiety or illness. When someone feels clammy, it can indicate that they are unwell or experiencing stress. In many cultures, clamminess is considered a sign of impending illness, especially in hot or humid weather. It is a word often used in medical contexts to describe the body's response to fever or shock.

More Information

The sensation of feeling clammy can be attributed to various factors, including nervousness, anxiety, fever, or high humidity. It refers to the unpleasant feeling of moisture on the skin, often accompanied by a cold or sticky feeling. Clammy skin is frequently associated with the body's fight-or-flight response or with conditions like the flu, which can make the body sweat excessively while feeling cold. Understanding the concept of "clammy" can help individuals identify certain symptoms of illness or stress, and is often used in everyday conversation to describe physical discomfort in hot or humid environments.