gunk

Gunk is a colloquial term for any thick, sticky, or greasy substance that accumulates on surfaces, often as dirt, oil, grease, or residue. It is informal and used across various domains to describe contaminant build-up that is difficult to remove. The exact origin is unclear, but it likely derives from the word goo and has been used in American English since the mid-20th century.

In households, gunk describes grime on kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, or tools after use. In automotive and mechanical contexts, it refers to oil, grease, rubberized deposits, or sludge that collects in engines and machinery. In electronics and manufacturing, gunk can denote flux residues, conformal coatings, or other adhesive residues that interfere with function.

In biology or medicine, gunk is used informally to mean viscous secretions or debris, but more precise terms such as mucus, exudate, or debris are preferred in professional contexts. In popular culture, gunk is often used to describe messy or gooey substances in games or demonstrations.

Cleaning approaches: Removing gunk typically requires breaking down the adhesive or sticky matrix with soap, degreaser, or solvents appropriate for the surface, followed by mechanical scrubbing or wiping; care is needed to avoid damage, particularly on delicate surfaces.