disreputable

[dis-rep-yuh-tuh-buhl]

adjective

1. not reputable; having a bad reputation.

   a disreputable barroom.

2. discreditable; dishonorable.

   Synonyms: shameful, louche, low, objectionable, unprincipled, ignoble, disgraceful

3. shabby or shoddy; of poor quality or condition.

   disreputable clothes.

disreputable

/ dɪsˈrɛpjʊtəbəl /

adjective

1. having or causing a lack of repute

2. disordered in appearance

Other Word Forms

• disreputability noun
• disreputableness noun
• disreputably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of disreputable¹

First recorded in 1765–75; dis- ¹ + reputable

Example Sentences

But as August fare goes, it’s a sticky, sweaty hoot, well cast and paced like a disreputable beach read, even if you might sporadically wish Werner Herzog had gotten first crack at this material.

From Los Angeles Times

"If that is the reason, it's disreputable and it can't be supported in any way."

From BBC

While declining to delve into “certain details,” the Grammy-winning songstress said, “It definitely doesn’t get any easier, seeing some of the negativity that was birthed by disreputable tabloids.”

From Los Angeles Times

How rosé wine is perceived and enjoyed today is, in a sense, a direct result of this long and ever so slightly disreputable history.

From Salon

He would also be barred from associating with disreputable people, and if he committed any additional crimes, he could be jailed immediately.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• contemptible 
• despicable 
• shady 
• shameful 
• sordid 
• vile