Uncouth: meaning, definitions and examples

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uncouth

 

[ ʌnˈkuːθ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Lacking good manners, refinement, or grace; rude or impolite. Uncouth behavior may include speaking loudly in public, interrupting others, or using offensive language.

Synonyms

boorish, crude, impolite, rude

Examples of usage

  • He was often criticized for his uncouth behavior at formal events.
  • Her uncouth remarks offended many of the guests.
Context #2 | Adjective

appearance

Lacking sophistication or elegance in appearance; awkward or clumsy. An uncouth outfit may consist of mismatched clothing or uncombed hair.

Synonyms

awkward, clumsy, gauche, unrefined

Examples of usage

  • She felt out of place in the elegant restaurant with her uncouth attire.
  • His uncouth appearance drew curious glances from passersby.

Translations

Translations of the word "uncouth" in other languages:

🇵🇹 grosseiro

🇮🇳 असभ्य

🇩🇪 ungehobelt

🇮🇩 kasar

🇺🇦 грубий

🇵🇱 nieokrzesany

🇯🇵 無作法

🇫🇷 grossier

🇪🇸 tosco

🇹🇷 kabalık

🇰🇷 무례한

🇸🇦 غير مهذب

🇨🇿 nevychovaný

🇸🇰 nevychovaný

🇨🇳 粗鲁

🇸🇮 neotesan

🇮🇸 ókurteis

🇰🇿 дөрекі

🇬🇪 უხეში

🇦🇿 kobud

🇲🇽 tosco

Etymology

The word 'uncouth' originated from Middle English and was commonly used in the 14th century to describe something unfamiliar or unknown. Over time, its meaning evolved to convey a sense of lacking refinement or manners. The prefix 'un-' signifies negation or absence, while 'couth' is derived from Old English 'cūth,' meaning known or familiar. Thus, 'uncouth' literally means not known or unfamiliar, eventually transforming into its modern usage to describe something crude or unsophisticated.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,863, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.