Definition

In a messy or dirty condition, often because of being wet or dragged through mud.

Example

After the rainstorm, the dog came back home looking bedraggled and muddy.

Conversation

Did you see how bedraggled the dog looked after the rain?

Yeah, it was all soaked and muddy!

I felt bad for it; it really needs a good bath.

Definitely! Poor thing must be so uncomfortable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bedraggled is formed from "bed" (from Old English *bed*, meaning a place for sleeping) and "ragged" (from the word "rag", meaning torn or tattered). The word describes something that is in a disheveled or untidy state, as if it has been dragged through dirt or rain, making it look worn and messy.

Memory Tip

Imagine a bed that has been left unmade and messy, with rags and dirt scattered about — this helps you remember that 'bedraggled' means something that looks untidy and disheveled.

Visually Confused Words