Scrawny/ˈskrɔːni/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation Often implies the person or animal is undesirably thin and may lack strength. The scrawny runner struggled to lift the heavy weights. Pro Tip 2/3Not for Obesity Never used to describe overweight individuals; it specifically means very thin. Even after the diet, he was never called scrawny. Pro Tip 3/3Not a Compliment May be considered rude or insulting if used to describe people; use with caution. She overheard someone call her scrawny and felt offended.