Frump: meaning, definitions and examples

Best describes a person, usually a woman, who dresses in an old-fashioned or unflattering way. It doesn't necessarily imply that the person is dirty, just that their style or appearance is out of date.

• She looked like a frump in that outdated dress.
• Despite her wealth, she dressed like a frump, ignoring the latest fashions.

Refers to a person who is habitually messy, untidy, or careless in their appearance and habits. This term is slightly old-fashioned and not as commonly used.

• The house was in disarray because he was a sloven who never bothered with housekeeping.
• Her sloven habits were evident from the clutter on every surface.

Describes someone, regardless of gender, who is messy and careless about their appearance or surroundings. It's less harsh than 'slattern' but still carries a negative implication.

• He was a complete slob, never cleaning up after himself.
• Her desk was so cluttered that everyone thought she was a bit of a slob.

Refers to a woman who is not only untidy but also dirty in her personal habits. This term carries a strong negative connotation and can be seen as quite offensive.

• Her room looked like it was owned by a slattern, with clothes and trash everywhere.
• People started to talk about her as a slattern because she never washed and kept her surroundings filthy.

Refers to someone who dresses in an old-fashioned or unfashionable way. Often used negatively to describe women who are perceived as lacking style.

• She felt like a frump in her grandmother's hand-me-downs.
• Don't be such a frump—try on this new dress!

Used to describe clothing or appearance that is unfashionable, unstylish, or lacking in elegance. Often involves dull, outdated, or poorly fitting clothes.

• The dowdy curtains in the living room really need an update.
• Her dowdy outfit made her look much older than she was.

Used to describe something that is simple, without decorative elements, or not striking in appearance. It can be neutral or slightly negative, depending on the context.

• She wore a plain white t-shirt and jeans to the meeting.
• The room was decorated in plain, unadorned furnishings.

Describes something that is dull, lacks color, or is monotonous. Can refer to clothing, decor, or even the mood in a room.

• The drab walls of the office made it a depressing place to work.
• She wore a drab gray dress to the party, which didn't stand out at all.