Definition

Not behaving in a way that is polite or honorable; lacking the qualities expected of a gentleman.

Example

His ungentlemanly behavior at the party surprised everyone.

Conversation

Did you see how he treated the waiter last night?

Yeah, that was really ungentlemanly of him.

I can't believe he didn't even say thank you.

Right? It just shows he has no respect for others.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ungentlemanly → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "gentleman" (from Old French *gentilhomme*, meaning a man of gentle birth or high social status) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in the manner of). The word describes behavior that is not in the manner of a gentleman, or lacking the qualities expected of a gentleman.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') behaving like a 'gentleman' — that's why 'ungentlemanly' means behaving in a way that is not gentlemanly.

Visually Confused Words