unshapely

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʌnˈʃeɪpli/

KK: /ʌnˈʃeɪpli/

adjective

Definition

Not having a clear or attractive shape; lacking form or structure.

Example

The sculpture was criticized for being unshapely and lacking elegance.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more unshapely

Superlative: most unshapely

Conversation

Have you seen that sculpture in the park?

Yeah, I did! It's really unshapely, isn't it?

I know, it looks like a blob.

Exactly! But I guess that's the artist's style.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

amorphous

blobby

misshapen

Antonyms

shapely

defined

structured

Root Explanation

Unshapely → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "shapely" (from Old English "sceaplic", meaning having a shape or form). The word "unshapely" means not having a pleasing or defined shape.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having a 'shape' ('shapely') — that's why unshapely means lacking a pleasing shape.

Visually Confused Words