Meaning & Definition of word "Disarray"

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    Disarray

    /ˌdɪs.əˈreɪ/

    noun:

    • 1. a state of disorganization or untidiness.
      • Example: The room was in complete disarray after the party.
    • 2. a lack of order or sequence.
      • Example: The disarray in the report made it difficult to understand the findings.
    • 3. confusion or disorder.
      • Example: The sudden announcement left the team in disarray.

    verb:

    • 1. to throw into a state of disorganization or confusion.
      • Example: The unexpected news disarrayed their plans for the project.
    • 2. to disrupt the order or arrangement of something.
      • Example: The storm disarrayed our carefully set plans for the weekend.

    Etymology

    Middle English disrayed, from dis- 'apart' + ray (from array) meaning 'arrangement'

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    in disarray:

    In a state of confusion or disorder.

    bring to disarray:

    To create disorder or confusion.

    disarray of thoughts:

    Mental confusion or lack of organization in thinking.

    Related Words

    array:

    An orderly arrangement.

    disrupt:

    To prevent something from continuing in its usual way.

    Slang Meanings of disarray

    Meaning: Hot mess

    Example Sentence: After the breakup, her life was a hot mess of disarray.

    Meaning: Train wreck

    Example Sentence: His finances are a train wreck; everything is in disarray.