disheveled
What does "disheveled" mean?
The word "disheveled" describes someone or something that appears untidy, messy, or disordered, usually in terms of personal appearance. Think of the image of a person who has just rolled out of bed with hair sticking up in every direction, clothes wrinkled, and a general lack of grooming. It is most commonly used to describe hair, clothing, or a person's general state of dress. While it implies a lack of neatness, it is not always negative; sometimes it describes a "charming" or "effortless" look, though it is more frequently used to point out that someone looks like they have had a very long or chaotic day.
"disheveled" in conversation
After a long flight
You look a bit disheveled, are you okay?
You look a bit disheveled, are you okay?
I just spent fourteen hours on a cramped plane!
I just spent fourteen hours on a cramped plane!
Used to describe the physical toll of travel.
Morning meeting
You look a bit disheveled today, John.
You look a bit disheveled today, John.
Sorry, my alarm didn't go off and I had to rush.
Sorry, my alarm didn't go off and I had to rush.
Used to gently point out someone's lack of professional grooming.
"disheveled" in a sentence
He looked disheveled after the long hike.
He looked disheveled after the long hike.
Her disheveled hair gave her a bohemian, artistic appearance.
Her disheveled hair gave her a bohemian, artistic appearance.
Despite his disheveled attire, he spoke with remarkable eloquence and authority.
Despite his disheveled attire, he spoke with remarkable eloquence and authority.
