dishevel

[ dih-shev-uhl ]

verb (used with object)

, di·shev·eled, di·shev·el·ing or (especially British) di·shev·elled, di·shev·el·ling.

1. to let down, as hair, or wear or let hang in loose disorder, as clothing.
2. to cause untidiness and disarray in:

   The wind disheveled the papers on the desk.

dishevel

/ dɪˈʃɛvəl /

verb

1. to disarrange (the hair or clothes) of (someone)

Derived Forms

• diˈshevelment, noun

Other Words From

• di·shevel·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dishevel¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; back formation from disheveled

Word History and Origins

Origin of dishevel¹

C15: back formation from dishevelled

Example Sentences

I never can get them there girls of mine to dishevel themselves in time.

From Project Gutenberg

Rich chaplets these were, that the winds might not dishevel their comely hair, and this is true i' faith.

From Project Gutenberg

Men tear their garments; women dishevel their hair; all take off their ornaments, and disfigure their faces with ashes or clay.

From Project Gutenberg

I find it clear and very clarifying, after the innumerable hours I have spent in trying to dishevel him.

From Project Gutenberg