How Do You Spell UNDERBRED?

Pronunciation: [ˌʌndəbɹˈɛd] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "underbred" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "un" is pronounced as /ʌn/ with a short u sound. The second syllable "der" is pronounced as /dɛr/ with the first e sound as in "bet". The final syllable "bred" is pronounced as /brɛd/ with the second e sound as in "met". Therefore, the correct spelling of this adjective, which means lacking in breeding or refinement, is "underbred" with a short u sound followed by two syllables with the e sound.

UNDERBRED Meaning and Definition

  1. Underbred is an adjective that describes something or someone as lacking in refinement, sophistication, or proper breeding. It refers to a person or thing that displays a lack of good breeding or upbringing, often associated with lower social classes or rudimentary education.

    In the context of people, an underbred individual may present themselves as boorish, uncouth, or lacking in manners. They may display behavior that is considered vulgar, unsophisticated, or in poor taste. This can extend to their speech, clothing, or overall demeanor, often indicating a lack of exposure to or understanding of higher standards of etiquette or culture.

    When used to describe an animal, underbred suggests that the animal has been poorly bred, lacking in desirable traits or characteristics. This may refer to animals that are not of purebred stock, displaying traits inconsistent with the standards of a particular breed. In livestock or pets, this may hinder them from meeting the desired qualities for which they were originally bred.

    Additionally, the term underbred can be metaphorically used to describe anything that lacks refinement or quality. It can be applied to inanimate objects, such as a poorly crafted piece of furniture or a low-end product lacking attention to detail.

    Overall, underbred characterizes a person, animal, or object as deficient in proper breeding, refinement, or quality, often suggesting a lack of sophistication or refinement associated with higher social or cultural standards.

  2. Of inferior breeding or manners.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNDERBRED

Etymology of UNDERBRED

The word "underbred" has an interesting etymology. It originated in the late 16th century England and stemmed from the prefix "under-" meaning beneath or inferior, and the verb "breed", referring to the raising or producing of offspring.

The concept of "underbred" initially denoted something that was not well-bred, meaning not properly raised or lacking in refinement. It was primarily used to describe animals, specifically ones that were not of pure or high-quality breeding. It later expanded to describe people, particularly those from low social classes or with less refined manners and behavior.

Over time, the term "underbred" evolved to include broader contexts and could signify anything considered crude, unrefined, or lacking in cultivation.

Similar spelling words for UNDERBRED

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