unbecoming
|un-be-com-ing|
/ˌʌn.bɪˈkʌm.ɪŋ/
inappropriate
Etymology
'unbecoming' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'becoming,' which means 'suitable or appropriate.'
'unbecoming' changed from the Old English word 'becuman,' meaning 'to come to' or 'to happen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'becoming' with the prefix 'un-' added to denote the opposite meaning.
Initially, it meant 'not coming to' or 'not happening,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not suitable or appropriate.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not appropriate or suitable; unflattering or inappropriate in appearance or behavior.
His behavior at the dinner was unbecoming of a gentleman.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41