Unclean Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unclean

[ʌnˈkliːn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

environment

Not clean or hygienic; dirty.

Synonyms

dirty, filthy, grimy, uncleanly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unclean	Used to describe something that is not clean, often in a general or mild sense. It can apply to both physical spaces and abstract concepts such as thoughts or behavior. The public restroom was unclean and needed attention. He felt unclean after hearing the disturbing news.
dirty	Suitable for situations where something is covered with visible dirt or mess. It can also describe morally corrupt behavior. This word can carry a negative connotation. The children came back from the playground with dirty hands. She felt dirty after telling a lie.
filthy	Used to describe something extremely dirty or disgusting. This term is stronger than 'dirty' and often has a very negative connotation. The kitchen was filthy after the party. He had to clean the filthy streets after the parade.
grimy	Describes something covered with ingrained dirt or grime, often due to neglect or exposure to pollution. Typically used for physical objects and surfaces. The old windows were so grimy that it was hard to see through them. His hands were grimy after working on the car.
uncleanly	Generally refers to habits or behaviors rather than objects. Used to describe something done in an unclean manner, often implying a lack of hygiene. The food was handled uncleanly, making several people sick. Uncleanly practices in the kitchen led to the restaurant's poor review.

Examples of usage

The kitchen was unclean and in need of a thorough scrubbing.
The unclean conditions in the restaurant led to a health inspection.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

spiritual

Morally impure or sinful.

Synonyms

corrupt, immoral, impure, sinful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unclean	Used to describe something that is dirty or not sanitary. Often used in physical or hygienic contexts. The kitchen was so unclean that it needed a thorough cleaning. The water in the pond appeared unclean and unsafe for swimming.
impure	Used to describe something that is not pure, often in the context of physical or moral cleanliness. It can be used for substances or behaviors. The laboratory found that the sample was impure and contaminated. She believed that certain thoughts and actions made a person impure.
sinful	Used to describe actions or behaviors that are considered to go against religious or moral laws. Often used in a religious context. Many religions consider stealing to be a sinful act. He confessed his sinful deeds to the priest.
immoral	Used to describe actions or behaviors that are considered wrong or unethical by societal standards. Often used in a moral or ethical context. Cheating on an exam is considered an immoral act. Some people believe that lying is inherently immoral.
corrupt	Used to describe someone or something that is dishonest, unethical, or has been influenced by bribery. Often used in political or organizational contexts. The politician was found to be corrupt, taking bribes from multiple companies. The system has become so corrupt that it is nearly impossible to find justice.

Examples of usage

He felt unclean after cheating on the exam.
The unclean thoughts plagued his conscience.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

In many cultures, cleanliness is associated with purity and moral integrity, impacting social norms.
Religious practices often emphasize cleanliness, such as in Judaism where certain foods are deemed 'unclean'.
In literature, uncleanliness can symbolize chaos or moral failing, such as in Gothic novels where characters reflect unclean thoughts through their surroundings.

Psychology

Disgust towards unclean things can be linked to survival instincts, as germs can cause illness.
Research shows that environments perceived as unclean can lead to increased anxiety and stress.
The concept of 'contagion' demonstrates how direct contact with unclean items can influence perceptions of personal hygiene.

Science

Microbiologists study unclean surfaces to understand the spread of bacteria and viruses.
The hygiene hypothesis suggests that a lack of exposure to unclean environments in childhood can lead to higher rates of allergies.
Cleaning products are formulated to eliminate germs, showcasing the scientific importance of maintaining unclean conditions.

Literature

In Shakespeare's works, themes of cleanliness versus uncleanliness often reflect characters' moral struggles.
Novels often depict 'unclean' settings to enhance a sense of foreboding or discomfort.
The contrast between clean and unclean spaces can serve to highlight character development and change over time.

Origin of 'unclean'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Old English 'unclene', where 'un-' means 'not' and 'clene' means 'clean'.
In Middle English, it evolved to 'uncleene', showing how language changes over time.
The prefix 'un-' is commonly used in English to indicate negation or the opposite of a word.

The word 'unclean' has Old English origins, derived from the word 'unclæne', which meant not morally pure or physically dirty. Over the centuries, the word has retained its dual meaning of both physical and moral impurity. It is often used in various contexts to describe something that is not clean, hygienic, or morally pure.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,745, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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12742 reclaimed
12743 hobby
12744 attic
12745 unclean
12746 forbade
12747 hegemony
12748 rag
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