Unkempt

/ʌnˈkɛmpt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Having an untidy or disheveled appearance; not properly maintained or cared for.

After a long hike, his hair was unkempt and he was covered in dirt.

Not combed or groomed; messy.

The unkempt garden was filled with overgrown weeds and wild plants.

Lacking order or cleanliness.

Her office was unkempt, with papers strewn all over the desk.

Carelessly or hastily done.

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

scruffy

He rolled into the party looking all scruffy like he'd just rolled out of bed.

ratty

Her outfit looked a bit ratty and unkempt.