ungain

adjective

un·​gain

¦ən¦gān

1

dialectal, British

a

: hard to reach or do : inaccessible, inconvenient

b

: intractable

2

dialectal : ungainly

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ungeyn, from un- entry 1 + geyn gain (direct)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now