Basic Details
Word: Unkempt
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Not neat or tidy; messy in appearance.
Synonyms: Dishevelled, untidy, scruffy
Antonyms: Neat, tidy, well-groomed
Idioms and Phrases
- Look like the cat's whiskers: Used to describe someone who is very neat and well-dressed. Example: "She arrived at the party looking like the cat's whiskers, while he looked rather unkempt."
- All dressed up and nowhere to go: Refers to someone who is dressed very well but has no plans. Example: "He was all dressed up and nowhere to go, in contrast to his unkempt friend."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The boy was often teased at school for his unkempt hair, which he never bothered to comb.
Example 2: After a long camping trip, they returned looking rather unkempt and in need of a shower.
Example 3: The unkempt garden was filled with weeds and overgrown plants, making it look neglected.
Fun Fact
The word "unkempt" comes from the Old English word "kempt," which means "combed." So, to be unkempt literally means to be not combed or tidy.
Famous Quote
"A well-groomed appearance gives you confidence and poise, while an unkempt look can undermine that confidence." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "unkempt" mean?
a) Neat and tidy
b) Not neat and tidy
c) Bright and cheerful
d) Small and delicate
Answer: b) Not neat and tidy
2. Which of these is a synonym of "unkempt"?
a) Neat
b) Dishevelled
c) Well-groomed
d) Polished
Answer: b) Dishevelled
3. Which word is an antonym of "unkempt"?
a) Scruffy
b) Untidy
c) Tidy
d) Messy
Answer: c) Tidy
4. Which sentence uses "unkempt" correctly?
a) He always looked unkempt after a fresh haircut.
b) Her unkempt appearance made her look very professional.
c) The unkempt garden needed lots of attention to be beautiful again.
d) She enjoyed an unkempt and clean room.
Answer: c) The unkempt garden needed lots of attention to be beautiful again.
5. Which idiom contrasts with "unkempt"?
a) All dressed up and nowhere to go
b) Look like the cat's whiskers
c) The proof is in the pudding
d) A picture is worth a thousand words
Answer: b) Look like the cat's whiskers
