Definition

Adjective: 1. Not combed; not having been tidied with a comb: Describes hair that is messy, tangled, or disordered because it has not been brushed or combed. 2. Disheveled, untidy in appearance (typically due to uncombed hair): Often used to describe a person's overall appearance when their hair is messy.

Usage

• The adjective "uncombed" is used to describe the state of hair. It is typically placed before a noun (e.g., uncombed hair) or used after a linking verb like "be" or "look."
• It often implies a lack of care or grooming, or a state of haste or disarray.

Examples

• Before a noun:
  • She rushed out the door with uncombed hair.
  • The child had a mop of uncombed curls.
• After a linking verb:
  • His hair was uncombed and stuck out in all directions.
  • After the long journey, they looked tired and uncombed.

Advanced Usage

• Descriptive Extension: While primarily for hair, "uncombed" can be used metaphorically to describe something with a similarly wild, untidy appearance.
  • The uncombed grass of the meadow waved in the wind.
• In Contrast: Often used to contrast a messy state with a neat one.
  • The portrait showed him with uncombed, rebellious hair, quite different from his usual polished look.

Variants and Related Words

• Uncomb (verb, rare): To not comb; to leave hair in a natural, untidy state. (e.g., )
• Disheveled (adjective): (Of a person's hair, clothes, or appearance) untidy; disordered. A close synonym with a broader application.
• Unkempt (adjective): Having an untidy or disheveled appearance. A stronger synonym that often implies neglect.
• Tousled (adjective): (Of hair) untidy in a deliberately casual or attractive way.

Synonyms

• Disheveled
• Unkempt
• Messy
• Tangled
• Tousled
• Ruffled

Antonyms

• Combed
• Neat
• Tidy
• Groomed
• Brushed
• Sleek

Adjective

1. (of hair) not combed
   • he was unwashed and uncombed with his clothes half buttoned
   • wild unkempt hair