How Do You Spell UNSHAPELY?

Pronunciation: [ʌnʃˈe͡ɪpli] (IPA)

The word "unshapely" is spelled with a combination of letters that correspond to specific sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ʌnˈʃeɪpli/. The "un-" at the beginning represents a prefix meaning "not," while the "sh" sound is spelled with the letters "sh." The "a" sound is produced by the letter "a," and the "p" sound is represented by the letter "p." Finally, the "ely" at the end represents an adverbial suffix. All of these components come together to create the spelling of "unshapely."

UNSHAPELY Meaning and Definition

  1. Unshapely is an adjective used to describe something that lacks a defined or pleasing shape or form. It refers to objects, individuals, or physical attributes that appear distorted, irregular, or disproportionate. The term emphasizes the absence of symmetry or balance, often resulting in an unattractive or awkward appearance.

    When describing objects, unshapely suggests a lack of proper contours or structure, indicating that it does not conform to conventional standards of aesthetics or functionality. For instance, an unshapely clay pot may have a lopsided, uneven form or lack smooth curves, making it visually unappealing.

    When used to describe people or physical attributes, unshapely indicates an abnormal or unbalanced bodily composition. It implies that the person's figure or features deviate from the widely accepted notions of beauty or normalcy. For example, an unshapely body might have disproportionate or irregular body parts, such as an asymmetrical face or an excessively long nose.

    Additionally, unshapely can describe abstract concepts or ideas that lack structure or coherence. For instance, an unshapely argument or theory may be characterized by disorganized or inadequate reasoning, rendering it less persuasive or convincing.

    Overall, unshapely is a term that conveys the absence of a pleasing or well-proportioned form, whether it relates to physical objects, individuals, or abstract concepts.

  2. Not well formed.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNSHAPELY

Etymology of UNSHAPELY

The word "unshapely" comes from a combination of the prefix "un-" and the adjective "shapely".

The term "shapely" originated from the Old English word "sceaplic", meaning "showing physical form" or "fitting". "Sceaplic" was derived from the Old English noun "sceap", which referred to "shape" or "form". Over time, "sceaplic" evolved into "shapely" in Middle English, maintaining the sense of something having a pleasing or well-formed shape.

The prefix "un-" is a common prefix in English, denoting negation or reversal. When combined with "shapely", it forms "unshapely", meaning without a pleasing or well-formed shape.

Similar spelling words for UNSHAPELY

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