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Synonyms

disorderly

American  
[dis-awr-der-lee] / dɪsˈɔr dər li /

adjective

  1. characterized by disorder; irregular; untidy; confused.

    a disorderly desk.

  2. unruly; turbulent; tumultuous.

    a disorderly mob.

  3. Law. contrary to public order or morality.


adverb

  1. in a disorderly manner.

disorderly British  
/ dɪsˈɔːdəlɪ /

adjective

  1. untidy; irregular

  2. uncontrolled; unruly

  3. law violating public peace or order

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

adverb

  1. in an irregular or confused manner

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • disorderliness noun
  • undisorderly adjective

Etymology

Origin of disorderly

First recorded in 1555–65; dis- 1 + orderly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Two officers were injured. Two violent rioters were arrested and were charged with assault on federal officers and disorderly conduct,” she wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

But the emphasis has shifted from reigniting speculation to preventing a disorderly unwind—a choice that limits upside while capping systemic risk.

From Barron's

A total of 19% of investors cite a disorderly rise in bond yields as the biggest tail risk.

From The Wall Street Journal

An AI bubble, however, remains the market’s biggest “tail risk” according to the December survey, followed by worries over a disorderly surge in bond yields and a renewed quickening of inflation pressures.

From Barron's

A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and remains in custody.

From BBC