Disheveled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
disheveled
[dษชหสษvษld ]
Definition
appearance
Untidy, messy or in disarray, typically of a person's hair or clothing.
Synonyms
messy, rumpled, unkempt, untidy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| disheveled |
Usually describes someoneโs appearance or clothing when it looks untidy or disordered.
|
| untidy |
Describes spaces or appearances that are not clean or organized; slightly more formal than 'messy'.
|
| rumpled |
Describes clothes that are wrinkled or look like they haven't been properly taken care of.
|
| unkempt |
Refers to a person's hair or appearance when it looks neglected or not well-groomed.
|
| messy |
Used for spaces, situations, or objects that are not clean or orderly; often informal.
|
Examples of usage
- He arrived at the party looking disheveled after a long day at work.
- Her disheveled appearance suggested she had just woken up.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- In literature, characters described as disheveled often signify chaos or emotional turmoil, like in many works by Shakespeare.
- Movies often portray disheveled characters as quirky or misunderstood, such as in 'The Breakfast Club' with the character Allison.
- Fashion trends have embraced the 'disheveled chic' look, where messy style is turned into a fashion statement.
Psychology
- Research suggests that a disheveled appearance might impact first impressions, making individuals seem less professional.
- People often associate being disheveled with feelings of stress or lack of control, highlighting its emotional undertones.
- In social contexts, appearing disheveled can affect one's confidence and influence how others perceive their competence.
Social Norms
- In many cultures, a well-groomed appearance is linked to self-respect and professionalism, while disheveled styles may challenge these norms.
- Certain communities celebrate a more casual, disheveled look as a form of self-expression and nonconformity.
- The rise of 'loungewear' and casual styles during the pandemic blurred lines between disheveled and acceptable attire.
Literature
- Many authors use disheveled characters to illustrate themes of freedom or rebellion against societal expectations.
- In Charles Dickens' works, impoverished characters frequently appear disheveled, reflecting their struggles and societal critique.
- The 'disheveled' trope is commonly seen in emotional breakdowns or crises in both modern and classic novels.
Origin of 'disheveled'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French 'dishevรชler,' which means 'to uncombed,' reflecting a disordered state.
- It entered the English language in the late 19th century, suggesting a specific reference to messy hair or attire.
- Originally, it described the appearance of horses whose manes were not properly groomed, which soon extended to people.
The word 'disheveled' originated from the Middle English word 'discheveled', which meant 'bare-headed'. Over time, the meaning evolved to describe someone with messy or untidy hair or clothing. The word has been used in English language since the 15th century.
See also: dishevelment.