Definition

Not having removed facial hair, typically resulting in a rough or unkempt appearance.

Example

He looked unshaven after skipping his morning routine.

Conversation

Hey, why do you look so unshaven today?

I didn't have time to shave before work this morning.

I thought you were going for that rugged look!

Maybe I'll keep it for a bit, just to see how it feels.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unshaven → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "shaven" (the past participle of "shave", which comes from Old English "sceafan", meaning to cut off hair). The word "unshaven" means not having been shaved or having hair that has not been cut off.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having 'cut off hair' ('shave') — that's why unshaven means not having been shaved.

Visually Confused Words