# unkempt

/ənˈkɛmpt/ (US) · /ʌnkˈɛmpt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unkempt
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

messy and not neat, especially hair, clothes, or a garden. You use it when someone or something looks like it needs care.

For teachers: lacking neatness or order in appearance, especially regarding hair, clothing, or surroundings. Often implies neglect rather than deliberate style.

## Examples

- He has unkempt hair and old shoes.
- After the long camping trip, the kids come home with unkempt hair and dirty clothes.
- The detective noted the man's unkempt beard and wrinkled coat, signs of weeks spent sleeping in his car while following the case.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; also used predicatively after 'look' or 'appear'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.