Skank

Skank is a slang term with several distinct meanings. In its most common non-technical sense, it is a derogatory label for a woman who is perceived as promiscuous or morally lax; the term is widely regarded as sexist and insulting. It can also function more broadly as a contemptuous label for something or someone considered dirty, low-grade, or disreputable. Because of its gendered and pejorative usage, skank is considered offensive in most contexts when applied to a person.

In music and dance, skank refers to a rhythmic style and the associated dance. In reggae, ska, and related genres, skanking describes playing offbeat chords or riffs on the upbeats; the technique is often performed on guitar, keyboard or bass. Skanking is also the name of a dance style featuring bouncy, energetic steps, common at ska and reggae events and adopted by some punk scenes. The origin of the musical meaning is not definitively established, but the term has been part of genre vocabulary since the mid-20th century.

Notes: In dictionaries and style guides, skank is listed as informal and sometimes offensive when used about people. In music contexts, it can be neutral. As with many slang terms, usage varies by community and era.