Definition

Something that is in very bad condition, often because it is poorly built or not taken care of, and looks like it might fall apart.

Example

The old ramshackle house looked like it could collapse at any moment.

Conversation

Have you seen that old house at the end of the street?

Yeah, it looks so ramshackle; I can't believe anyone lives there.

I heard the roof is about to collapse!

Honestly, it wouldn’t surprise me if it fell down any day now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ramshackle → It is formed from "ram" (of uncertain origin, possibly related to the Old English "ramm", meaning a male sheep) and "shackle" (from Old English "sceacel", meaning a fastening or a device for securing). The word describes something that is in a state of disrepair or poorly constructed, as if it is held together loosely like a ram and a shackle.

Memory Tip

Imagine a structure that is loosely held together, like a ram that is not securely fastened — this helps you remember that 'ramshackle' refers to something in disrepair.

Visually Confused Words