disarray

[dis-uh-rey]

verb (used with object)

1. to put out of array or order; throw into disorder.

2. to undress.

noun

1. disorder; confusion.

   The army retreated in disarray.

2. disorder of apparel.

disarray

/ ˌdɪsəˈreɪ /

noun

1. confusion, dismay, and lack of discipline

2. (esp of clothing) disorderliness; untidiness

verb

1. to throw into confusion

2. archaic,  to undress

Word History and Origins

Origin of disarray¹

1350–1400; (noun) late Middle English; Middle English disrai, d ( e ) rai < Anglo-French dissairay, Old French desaroi; (v.) Middle English disarayen < Anglo-French desaraier, Old French desareer; dis- ¹, array

Example Sentences

For the first time in recent memory, headlines are proclaiming that “Republicans are in disarray” rather than Democrats.

Read more on Salon

Lecornu’s benighted tenure—the shortest in the history of France’s modern Fifth Republic—is a measure of how a political system that was once a cornerstone of stability in Europe has fallen into disarray.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

PARIS—President Emmanuel Macron is moving to name a new prime minister rather than calling snap elections, an approach that buys time for the country’s political establishment to pull France out of its fiscal disarray.

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Such an ego can only mean disorder and disarray will follow, and “Family Meal” delivers.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Baltimore’s offense is in disarray and its defense is ravaged by injuries.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anarchy 
• chaos 
• disharmony 
• shambles