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Meaning of unkempt
The primary meaning of "unkempt" is describing something, especially hair, that is untidy or unkempt.
Etymology of unkempt
The word "unkempt" has its roots in Old English and Middle English, with "unkempt" being derived from "unkempen" or "unkempan," which means to comb or to dress the hair, with the prefix "un-" indicating a lack or negation.
Historically, the term was used to describe hair that was not properly combed or dressed, but over time, its meaning expanded to include other things that were untidy or neglected.
Synonyms
disheveled
untidy
unkempt
messy
shaggy
uncombed
unbrushed
unclean
dirty
filthy
grimy
slovenly
sloppy
dowdy
frowzy
frumpy
rumpled
tousled
tangled
matted
knotted
snarled
coarse
rough
rugged
wild
unmanaged
uncontrolled
unrestrained
chaotic
cluttered
jumbled
disordered
untamed
unpolished
crude
primitive
savage
barbarous
uncivilized
rude
crude
unfinished
unrefined.
Definitions
- Oxford Languages defines "unkempt" as (of a person's hair) untidy or uncombed, or (of a place or thing) untidy or neglected.
- It can also describe something that is not properly maintained or managed.
Usage Examples
- The hiker's unkempt beard and hair made him look like a wild man.
- The garden had become unkempt and overgrown since the owner had last tended to it.
- Her unkempt hair and dirty clothes gave the impression that she had been living on the streets.
Antonyms
tidy
neat
orderly
organized
well-groomed
combed
brushed
clean
spotless
immaculate
polished
refined
cultivated
civilized
sophisticated
elegant
sleek
smooth
managed
controlled
restrained
disciplined
precise
meticulous
fastidious
trim
manicured
primped
preened.