Dishevel Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dɪˈsɛvəl/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A disheveled condition or appearance, characterized by disorder, untidiness, or disarray; a state of being untidy, disordered, or unwashed.

Examples

After a long night out, Sarah woke up with disheveled hair and clothes.
Disheveled and tired, John stumbled into the coffee shop.
Emily’s room was a disheveled mess, with clothes scattered all over the floor.
Following the accident, the car was left in a disheveled state.

Synonyms

Disheared
Untidy
Cluttered
Disarrayed

Antonyms

Neat
Tidy
Clean
Ornate

Etymology

The word “Dishevel” has its roots in the Old English words “dis” meaning “apart” and “helpan” meaning “to help”. It is believed to have originated in the 14th century, describing a person or thing that has been dismantled or broken apart.

Usage Notes

Use “Dishevel” to describe a particular state or condition, such as being untidy or disordered. It can also be used to describe someone’s appearance, such as being unkempt or unkept.

Cultural References

Disheveled has appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. For example, the character of Lisbeth Salander in Stieg Larsson’s Millennium series is often described as being disheveled.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

To look disheveled
To be in disheveled state

Related Words or Phrases

Untidy
Cluttered
Disorganized
Messy

Collocations

Disheveled hair
Disheveled clothes
Disheveled room

Frequency of Use

Disheveled is a relatively uncommon word, with its usage being limited to specific contexts such as literature, film, and television.