Definition

In a way that is unfashionable or unattractive, often referring to clothing or appearance.

Example

She dressed frumpily for the party, wearing an old sweater and baggy pants.

Conversation

Why do you always dress so frumpily?

I just feel comfortable this way, you know?

But you could look great without being uncomfortable.

True, maybe I should try dressing better sometimes!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Frumpily is derived from "frump" (originating from the 19th-century English word meaning to dress in a dowdy or unfashionable manner) and the suffix "-ily" (meaning in a manner of). The word "frumpily" describes the manner of dressing or behaving in a dowdy or unfashionable way.

Memory Tip

Think of someone dressing in a way that is considered unfashionable ('frump') and doing so 'in a manner' ('-ily'). This helps you remember that 'frumpily' means to do something in a dowdy way.

Visually Confused Words