Frumpy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone, usually a woman, whose clothing or appearance is outdated or unattractive. It has a somewhat negative connotation.

• She felt frumpy in her old, baggy sweater at the stylish party.
• Despite her kind heart, her frumpy clothes often made her the target of teasing.

Describes something unattractive or lacking in style, often referring to clothing or appearance. This word also has a mildly negative tone.

• His dowdy suit made him stand out in the crowd of fashionable attendees.
• She was known for her dowdy dress sense, despite her beautiful personality.

Used to describe someone or something that lacks fashion or style. It's often a straightforward, descriptive term without strong negative connotations.

• Despite his unstylish outfit, he got the job because of his impressive skills.
• Her unstylish haircut didn't bother her because she valued comfort over trends.

Used to describe something that is no longer in fashion or generally used. It can refer to not only clothing but also ideas, technology, or practices. Neutral to slightly negative connotation.

• The outmoded computer could barely run the latest software.
• The company's outmoded policies were in need of an update.

Describes someone, especially a woman, who is dressed in an old-fashioned or unfashionable way. It can imply that the person looks dowdy or boring.

• She always wears frumpy dresses that her grandmother used to wear.
• Despite her frumpy appearance, she was very kind and intelligent.

Refers to being untidy, disorganized, or careless in appearance or work. It can describe both clothing and behavior.

• His sloppy handwriting made it difficult to read the notes.
• She came to the meeting in a sloppy outfit.

Describes something that is worn out or in poor condition, often due to use or neglect. It can refer to clothes, furniture, or even places.

• His coat looked shabby after years of use.
• They lived in a shabby apartment that needed a lot of repairs.

Describes someone or something that is untidy or not well-groomed. It often implies that the person has not taken care of their appearance.

• He had an unkempt beard and wore wrinkled clothes.
• Her unkempt garden was overgrown with weeds.