Unshapely Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
š
unshapely
[ŹnĖŹeÉŖp.li ]
Definition
physical appearance
Unshapely refers to something lacking a defined or attractive shape or form. It is often used to describe a body or figure that is not considered aesthetically pleasing or well-proportioned.
Synonyms
awkward, ill-proportioned, misshapen.
Examples of usage
- She felt self-conscious about her unshapely dress.
- The sculpture was criticized for its unshapely form.
- In the fashion industry, unshapely designs are often avoided.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Art and Design
- In art, forms that are considered unshapely can challenge traditional ideas of beauty, leading to innovation in abstract styles.
- Designers often explore unshapely forms to create functional yet unconventional objects, fostering unique aesthetics.
- Avant-garde movements in art often embrace unshapeness, making it a focal point to provoke thought and discussion.
Literature
- Authors use 'unshapely' to evoke emotions, reminding readers that not everything has to conform to classic notions of beauty.
- In poetry, unshapely images can enhance themes of chaos or disorder, inviting deeper interpretation.
- The word appears in various literary works to describe characters or settings that defy conventional allure, adding richness to narratives.
Psychology
- People's perceptions of beauty can be influenced by cultural ideals; unshapely figures may lead to discussions on self-image and acceptance.
- Research shows that what is perceived as unshapely can affect self-esteem, impacting how individuals view themselves and others.
- The concept of beauty is subjective, with unshapely forms challenging societal norms and inviting personal interpretations.
Fashion
- In fashion design, 'unshapely' garments sometimes highlight individuality over conventional beauty standards.
- Fashion circles often debate the role of unshapely clothing in breaking down barriers of body image and aesthetics.
- The rise of body positivity movements embraces all forms and shapes, combating the idea that only shapely bodies are desirable.
Origin of 'unshapely'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unshapely' combines 'un-' meaning 'not,' and 'shapely,' which means having a graceful or attractive shape.
- First used in English literature during the 16th century, it illustrates changing perceptions of beauty and form.
- The prefix 'un-' is used to form the opposite of a word, often creating new meanings in descriptive language.
The word 'unshapely' is derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' combined with 'shapely', which itself comes from the noun 'shape'. The term 'shape' has Old English origins, 'sceap,' which refers to the form or appearance of something. The combination of these elements highlights the absence of pleasing form or proportion. The earliest recorded use of 'shapely' can be traced back to the late 14th century, where it was used to describe something having a beautiful or well-defined form. The negative prefix 'un-' was added to signify the lack of these qualities, emphasizing unattractiveness in physical appearance. 'Unshapely' gained usage during the 19th and 20th centuries in both everyday language and artistic critiques, reflecting cultural standards of beauty that often favored symmetry and proportionality.