# untidy

/ənˈtaɪdi/ (US) · /ʌntˈaɪdi/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/untidy
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

not neat or clean. You use it for messy rooms, clothes, hair, or writing.

For teachers: lacking order, neatness, or cleanliness; disordered in arrangement or appearance. Often describes rooms, personal appearance, habits, or work.

## Examples

- My desk is untidy today.
- The children leave their bedroom untidy with clothes all over the floor.
- Despite his untidy office, with papers stacked on every chair, he could locate any file within seconds.

## Synonyms

messy, disorderly, cluttered, scruffy, unkempt, sloppy

## Antonyms

tidy

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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.