Messy: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'messy' to describe something that is generally in a state of disorder and uncleanliness. It is often used to describe places, workspaces, or events that lack neatness.

• The children's room was very messy after they finished their playtime.
• Her desk is always messy with papers and books all over it.

Use 'untidy' to describe something that is not neat or in order. It is less intense than 'messy' and often used for personal appearance or smaller areas.

• Her hair is looking quite untidy today.
• The living room was a bit untidy with books and magazines lying around.

Use 'disorganized' for situations or systems that lack proper arrangement or order. This word is often used in contexts where planning, coordination, or structured arrangement is missing.

• The project failed because of the disorganized way it was managed.
• Her notes are so disorganized that it's hard to follow her research.

Use 'cluttered' when referring to spaces filled with too many things, making it hard to find what you need. It suggests an overload of items rather than dirtiness.

• The garage is cluttered with tools and old furniture.
• His desk was cluttered with documents, leaving no space for his laptop.

When something or somewhere is not in order and is dirty or untidy.

• The room was messy after the party
• His writing is very messy

Similar to 'messy,' but can be more formal. Indicates something that is not in order or clean.

• His room is always untidy
• The desk was untidy with papers scattered everywhere

Often used to describe someone's hair or appearance that is untidy or unkempt.

• She arrived at the meeting with disheveled hair
• His clothes looked disheveled after the long journey

Best used to describe something that is twisted together in a messy way, often hair or wires.

• Her hair was tangled after the windy day
• The headphones were tangled in his pocket

Often used to describe physical spaces that are cluttered or untidy. It can also be used in a metaphorical sense to describe situations or processes that are disorganized.

• The room is so messy, I can't even find my socks
• Their breakup was really messy and complicated

Primarily used to describe a state of mind where someone is unable to think clearly or understand something. It can also be used for situations that are unclear or hard to understand.

• I'm so confused by these instructions
• The plot of the movie left everyone confused

Refers to situations that are completely out of control or lack any order. This can apply to both physical environments and abstract situations.

• The market was chaotic after the announcement
• Her schedule is chaotic with all these last-minute changes

Used to describe behavior, environments, or situations that lack order or control. The term often has a negative connotation, implying a lack of discipline or organization.

• The library was surprisingly disorderly with books strewn everywhere
• His disorderly conduct at the event led to his removal