uncivilized

[ uhn-siv-uh-lahyzd ]

adjective

1. not civilized civilized or cultured; barbarous.

uncivilized

/ ʌnˈsɪvɪˌlaɪzɪdlɪ; ʌnˈsɪvɪˌlaɪzd /

adjective

1. (of a tribe or people) not yet civilized, esp preliterate
2. lacking culture or sophistication

Derived Forms

• unˈciviˌlizedness, noun
• uncivilizedly, adverb

Other Words From

• un·civ·i·liz·ed·ly [uhn-, siv, -, uh, -lahy-zid-lee, -lahyzd-], adverb
• un·civi·lized·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of uncivilized¹

First recorded in 1600–10; un- ¹ + civilized

Example Sentences

Some may find that idea revolting, a belief often, if unknowingly, steeped in colonialism and the notion that eating insects is "uncivilized."

From Salon

Indigenous peoples throughout North America once consumed a variety of insects, a practice European colonists deemed "uncivilized" — a way to "other" nonwhite communities and cultural practices.

From Salon

“In view of Gao’s uncivilized visit and his behavior that may cause harm to giant pandas, he is prohibited from entering the panda base … for life,” the notice said.

From Seattle Times

“My mom says the way they practice...is uncivilized.”

From Literature

Surely not — why, antisemitism is uncivilized, and L.A. was a civilized town.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• barbaric
• barbarous
• boorish
• churlish
• disrespectful
• impolite
• rude
• unconscionable
• vulgar