Meaning & Definition of word "Unkempt"
Unkempt
/ʌnˈkɛmpt/
adjective:
- 1. Having an untidy or disheveled appearance; not properly maintained or cared for.
- Example: After a long hike, his hair was unkempt and he was covered in dirt.
- 2. Not combed or groomed; messy.
- Example: The unkempt garden was filled with overgrown weeds and wild plants.
- 3. Lacking order or cleanliness.
- Example: Her office was unkempt, with papers strewn all over the desk.
- 4. Carelessly or hastily done.
- Example: He gave an unkempt response, indicating he hadn't prepared at all.
Etymology
●The term unkempt is derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' combined with the word 'kempt', which is a past participle of the verb 'to kempt', meaning 'to comb' or 'to groom'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
look unkempt:
to appear messy or not well-groomed.
unkempt appearance:
a physical look that is disorderly and lacks cleanliness.
Related Words
kempt:
neatly kept or groomed.
disheveled:
in disarray; untidy.
Slang Meanings of unkempt
Meaning: scruffy
● Example Sentence: He rolled into the party looking all scruffy like he'd just rolled out of bed.
Meaning: ratty
● Example Sentence: Her outfit looked a bit ratty and unkempt.