Definition

Not characteristic of a good wife; lacking the qualities traditionally expected of a wife.

Example

Her behavior was considered unwifely by the community.

Conversation

I feel like I acted a bit unwifely at the party last night.

What do you mean? Did you embarrass yourself?

Not really, but I was joking around too much, you know?

Ah, I get it! Sometimes it's fun to let loose and not worry about being too proper.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unwifely → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "wif" (from Old English "wif", meaning woman or wife) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in the manner of). The word "unwifely" describes behavior that is not characteristic of a good wife or woman.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with 'wife' ('wif') to remember that 'unwifely' means behaving in a way that is not typical of a good wife.

Visually Confused Words