slovenly

adjective

slov·​en·​ly ˈslə-vən-lē 

 also  ˈslä-

1

a

: untidy especially in personal appearance

b

: lazily slipshod

slovenly in thought

2

: characteristic of a sloven

slovenly habits

slovenliness noun

slovenly adverb

Synonyms

• blowsy
• blowzy
• dowdy
• frowsy
• frowzy
• slobbish
• slobby
• sloppy
• sloven
• unkempt
• untidy

Examples of slovenly in a Sentence

He dressed in a slovenly manner.

for the sake of their image, the band members transformed themselves from clean-cut lads to slovenly rockers

Recent Examples on the Web

To them, flame is slovenly, backward, even atavistic, tolerable only when used for ceremonial purposes. —Stephen Pyne, Scientific American, 16 Apr. 2024

Giraffes at least keep the water sports to themselves; their slovenly, muck-loving neighbors, on the other hand, spread the excrement far and wide. —Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 13 Mar. 2024

Slough House is headed by the slovenly, flatulent, and frequently intoxicated Jackson Lamb (Gary Oldman), who routinely heaps verbal abuse on his staff. —Ars Staff, Ars Technica, 29 Dec. 2023

In this era of slovenly journalism and educational malpractice, National Review Institute’s devotion to authentic history, reasoned debate, and insightful commentary is invaluable. —Peter J. Travers, National Review, 30 Dec. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1568, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

slovenly

adjective

slov·​en·​ly ˈsləv-ən-lē 

1

a

: untidy especially in dress or person

b

: lazily careless

2

: characteristic of a sloven

slovenliness noun

slovenly adverb