What does uncivilised mean?
Uncivilised means lacking the behaviour, manners, or social organisation commonly regarded as civilised. In its clearest sense, it describes conduct that is rude, violent, or badly controlled, as in a reference to “uncivilised behaviour.” It can also be applied to societies or peoples considered backward or underdeveloped, but that broader use is frequently dated and carries a history of colonial and cultural prejudice. Because the judgement depends on the standards of the person making it, modern speakers often prefer more precise, non-judgemental descriptions. The British spelling is “uncivilised,” while American English normally uses “uncivilized.” Even when used in its original sense of lacking courtesy or restraint, the word is strongly negative, so neutral alternatives such as “impolite,” “hostile,” or “disorderly” may be preferable when they convey the intended meaning accurately.
adjectiveLacking the standards of behaviour regarded as civilised; rude, violent, or socially backward. The word can also describe a society or people considered underdeveloped, but this sense is often dated and reflects the biases of the observer.
- Rude, violent, or lacking the manners and restraint associated with civilised conduct.
- Believed to be socially, culturally, or technologically backward, especially in historical accounts of non-European peoples; this use is often dated and pejorative.
"The tribe was treated as uncivilised by colonial officials, who neither understood nor respected its traditions."
"His uncivilised outburst made everyone in the room fall silent."
"European explorers frequently portrayed indigenous communities as uncivilised, overlooking the complex social systems they had developed."
Once used by many European colonisers to portray other peoples as backward, “uncivilised” now carries a history of prejudice as well as its literal meaning.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does uncivilised come from?
Uncivilised was formed in English from “uncivil” and the verb-forming suffix “-ised,” with “uncivil” combining the negative prefix “un-” with “civil.” Civil derives through Old French from Latin civilis, which is related to civis, meaning “citizen.” The “-ised” spelling is characteristic of British English, while American English generally uses the corresponding “-ized” form.
Related word forms
How uncivilised is actually used
The word is often judgemental and may sound dated, especially when applied to a people or society. For people or cultures, “non-Western,” “indigenous,” or a more specific description is usually more accurate and respectful.
Easily confused with uncivilised
Uncivil refers chiefly to discourteous or impolite behaviour, whereas uncivilised can describe a broader absence of social development or civility.