How Do You Spell UNTOWARDNESS?

Pronunciation: [ʌntʊwˈɔːdnəs] (IPA)

Untowardness is a seventeen-letter word that refers to an event or situation that is unexpected and unfortunate. Its spelling can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as ʌn-təˈwɔːdnəs. The first syllable is pronounced as "un" with a schwa sound, followed by "to" pronounced with a short o sound, and "ward" with an unstressed vowel sound as "ərd." The next syllable has the long o sound pronounced as "ɔː" and the final syllable is pronounced with the unstressed vowel sound "nəs."

UNTOWARDNESS Meaning and Definition

1. Untowardness refers to the state or quality of being unfortunate, unfavorable, or inappropriate. It characterizes events, actions, or circumstances that are unexpected, unpleasant, or problematic, often carrying a sense of disappointment or hardship.

   When describing a situation as untoward, it implies that it deviates from what is considered appropriate or desired, and may hinder progress, comfort, or success. Untowardness can manifest in various ways, such as unexpected behaviors, undesired outcomes, or unforeseen difficulties.

   For example, an untoward incident could refer to a sudden and unfortunate event that causes harm or disruption, like a car accident or a natural disaster. Similarly, untoward behavior might describe actions or conduct that are deemed inappropriate or offensive, such as rude comments or disrespectful behavior.

   This term is often used in contexts where expectations are unmet or where negative consequences arise unexpectedly. It carries a connotation of inconvenience, disappointment, or adversity. The notion of untowardness can exist in both personal and professional spheres, impacting relationships, plans, or goals.

   To summarize, untowardness denotes the presence of unfavorable or unfortunate circumstances, actions, or events that disrupt desired outcomes and bring unwanted consequences or discomfort.

2. Perverseness.

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

Common Misspellings for UNTOWARDNESS

• yntowardness
• hntowardness
• jntowardness
• intowardness
• 8ntowardness
• 7ntowardness
• ubtowardness
• umtowardness
• ujtowardness
• uhtowardness
• unrowardness
• unfowardness
• ungowardness
• unyowardness
• un6owardness
• un5owardness
• untiwardness
• untkwardness
• untlwardness
• untpwardness

Etymology of UNTOWARDNESS

The word "untowardness" originated from the combination of two words: "un-" and "towardness".

1. "Un-" is a prefix in English derived from the Old English word "un-", meaning "not" or "lack of". It is used to negate or reverse the meaning of the word it is attached to.

2. "Towardness" comes from the word "toward", which is derived from the Old English word "tóweard", meaning "in the direction of". It originally referred to physical movement or direction, but over time, it also came to denote a favorable, willing, or amiable disposition towards something.

When the prefix "un-" is added to "towardness", it implies the absence or lack of a favorable disposition or behavior. Therefore, "untowardness" refers to the state or quality of being contrary, uncooperative, or difficult.