slovenly

/ˈslɒv.ən.li/

Group 30Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Messy and dirty; untidy; excessively casual
GRE

Example in Context

The inspector's report noted the slovenly condition of the kitchen, citing multiple health code violations that warranted immediate closure.

Synonyms

messysloppyunkempt

Etymology

Being careless leads to a messy and dirty appearance.

  • slovene (Slavic) — careless

Memory Aid

🐔Sounds like “slob of a henley

Imagine a SLOVENLY chicken wearing a dirty henley, clucking in utter disarray!

Visual Association

🧑‍🎤A rock star on stage with clothes so messy that even the audience gasps in shock.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “slovenly” mean on the GRE?

slovenly (adjective) means “Messy and dirty; untidy; excessively casual”. The inspector's report noted the slovenly condition of the kitchen, citing multiple health code violations that warranted immediate closure.

How to remember “slovenly” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “slovenly” sounds like “slob of a henley”. Imagine a SLOVENLY chicken wearing a dirty henley, clucking in utter disarray!

What are synonyms for “slovenly”?

Common synonyms: messy, sloppy, unkempt.