Yankee-esque
|yank-ee-esque|
/ˌjæŋkiˈɛsk/
in the style of a Yankee
Etymology
'Yankee-esque' is formed from the noun 'Yankee' plus the adjectival suffix '-esque' (from French '-esque'), meaning 'in the style of' or 'resembling'.
'Yankee' likely originates from Dutch 'Janke' (a diminutive of 'Jan'), used as a nickname for some early New England settlers; the suffix '-esque' comes into English from French '-esque' (and ultimately Italian '-esco'), producing formations like 'picturesque' and later 'Yankee-esque'.
Initially the element meant simply 'relating to a Yankee' or 'in the style of a Yankee'; over time it has retained that basic meaning but broadened to describe cultural traits, styles, or stereotypical characteristics associated with Yankees.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
resembling or characteristic of a 'Yankee' — i.e., someone from the northern United States (especially New England) or of northern U.S. styles and manners.
The cottage had a simple, Yankee-esque charm that felt distinctly New England.
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Adjective 2
having traits stereotypically associated with Yankees — e.g., practicality, thrift, plainness, or a particular regional accent or cultural manner.
Her Yankee-esque practicality meant she always fixed things herself rather than calling a contractor.
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Last updated: 2026/01/12 05:07