dishevel

[ dih-shev-uhl ]

verb (used with object)

, di·shev·eled, di·shev·el·ing or (especially British) di·shev·elled, di·shev·el·ling.

1. to let down, as hair, or wear or let hang in loose disorder, as clothing.
2. to cause untidiness and disarray in:

   The wind disheveled the papers on the desk.

dishevel

/ dɪˈʃɛvəl /

verb

1. to disarrange (the hair or clothes) of (someone)

Derived Forms

• diˈshevelment, noun

Other Words From

• di·shevel·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dishevel¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; back formation from disheveled

Word History and Origins

Origin of dishevel¹

C15: back formation from dishevelled

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