Uncleanly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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uncleanly

[ʌnˈkliːnlɪ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used in a sentence

In a messy or dirty manner; not cleanly.

Synonyms

dirtily, messily, sloppily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
uncleanly	Repeated; see above.
messily	Use this word to describe a condition that is untidy or disorganized, often without a focus on dirt but more on clutter and disorder. She writes messily, making it hard to read. The children ate ice cream messily, smearing it on their shirts.
dirtily	This term is used to describe something that is covered in dirt or appears messy. It can be used in a general context but often implies a physical sense of being dirty. He walked dirtily through the house after playing outside. The floors were swept dirtily, leaving dust in the corners.
sloppily	This word indicates a careless or lazy approach to doing something, which often results in a poor and untidy outcome. It can have a negative connotation. He completed his homework sloppily, with mistakes and crossed-out words. The painter worked sloppily, leaving streaks and drips everywhere.

Examples of usage

He ate uncleanly, with food spilling all over the table.
She dressed uncleanly, with her clothes wrinkled and stained.
The room was left uncleanly, with trash scattered everywhere.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Health

Living in uncleanly conditions can lead to the spread of germs and illnesses.
Proper cleanliness is important in healthcare settings to prevent infections.

Cultural Perspectives

Different cultures have unique standards of cleanliness; what is considered unclean in one culture might be acceptable in another.
In some societies, uncleanliness can be associated with moral judgments, affecting social standing.

Literature

In many classic novels, characters depicted as uncleanly often symbolize deeper issues, such as neglect or rebellion.
The portrayal of uncleanly settings can evoke strong imagery, influencing the mood and themes of the story.

Psychology

Studies suggest that perceptions of cleanliness can affect mood and mental clarity.
Being in an uncleanly environment can lead to feelings of discomfort or anxiety for some individuals.

Origin of 'uncleanly'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from combining 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'cleanly' which relates to being clean or neat.
The term has been in use since at least the 14th century, highlighting long-standing concerns over cleanliness.

The word 'uncleanly' originated from the Middle English word 'uncleene', which was derived from the Old English 'unclǣne', meaning impure or dirty. Over time, the word evolved to its current form to describe actions or behaviors that are not done in a clean or tidy manner.