disheveled

[ dih-shev-uhld ]

adjective

1. hanging loosely or in disorder; unkempt:

   disheveled hair.

2. untidy; disarranged:

   a disheveled appearance.

   Synonyms: sloppy, slovenly, messy

Other Words From

• undi·sheveled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disheveled¹

1375–1425; late Middle English discheveled < Old French deschevele, past participle of descheveler to dishevel the hair, equivalent to des- dis- ¹ + -cheveler, derivative of chevel a hair < Latin capillus

Example Sentences

It’s fitting that a park known for its man-on-the-street ambush-type interviews and random impromptu performances is a breeding ground for this disheveled competition.

From Salon

Julian Casablancas sneered his way into instant rock stardom nearly a quarter of a century ago as the glamorously disheveled frontman of the Strokes.

From Los Angeles Times

Wide-eyed, wild-haired, and disheveled, Keaton's crusty trickster still invokes the patron demon of late-stage crack addiction, bringing with him the same wily unpredictability that made him such a hoot last time.

From Salon

When the music came to a stop, he tossed off his black leather jacket to reveal a business suit underneath and stepped up to the podium, returning to his usual persona as a disheveled academic.

From Seattle Times

The singer’s sweeping eyeliner, tottering heels and disheveled beehive are still instantly recognizable, 13 years after her death.

From New York Times

Related Words

• bedraggled
• messy
• rumpled