Pronunciation: [dɪʃˈɛvə͡lz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "dishevels" may seem a bit confusing at first glance. However, its phonetic transcription, /dɪˈʃɛvəlz/, can help explain it. The "dis-" prefix indicates the reversal of the state of being "heveled" or neat and tidy. The "sh" sound is spelled with "sh", as in "she", while the "evels" part rhymes with "rebels". Altogether, "dishevels" means to make something appear messy or unkempt.
Dishevels is a verb that refers to the act of making something or someone look untidy, unkempt, or in disarray. When something or someone becomes disheveled, their appearance appears disordered, disorganized, or tousled.
The word dishevels specifically describes the process of disrupting the arrangement or order of something, especially concerning one's physical appearance. It implies a state of being untidy or messy due to the lack of neatness or care. Disheveling can be attributed to multiple factors such as wind, physical activity, or neglect of grooming. When used in relation to hair or clothing, dishevels suggests a lack of attention to proper grooming or upkeep.
In a wider context, dishevels can also describe the act of causing disorder or confusion in a situation. It can refer to disrupting harmony or tranquility, creating a chaotic or disorganized state. For example, a sudden turn of events may dishevel the plans or preparations of an individual or a group, leading to a disordered or disrupted outcome.
In summary, dishevels is a verb that describes the process of making things or individuals appear untidy, messy, or disordered. It primarily applies to physical appearance but can also be used to describe the disruption or disorder in a broader context.
The word dishevels is derived from the verb dishevel, which came into Middle English from Old French deschevele(r) around the 14th century. In turn, Old French originated from Late Latin dischevellare, a combination of dis- (meaning apart or away) and chevel (meaning hair). The Latin term was formed from the prefix dis- and the noun capillus (meaning hair). Ultimately, the etymology of dishevels traces back to the Latin dis- and capillus, giving it the underlying meaning of to un-hair or to untangle hair.
