What does untucked mean?
Untucked means not tucked in, folded, or made neat, and is especially associated with clothing that is left loose rather than secured at the waistband. The word can also describe hair released from behind the ears or fabric that has been loosened from a fold. As a verb, untuck means to release or straighten something that was tucked in, as in untucking a shirt or bedding. In everyday English, the term has a mildly informal, practical quality. It often conveys the opposite of a deliberately neat or formal appearance, particularly when a shirt is worn outside rather than tucked into trousers or a skirt. Although untucked can sound like a simple descriptive adjective, it identifies a specific visual arrangement that other words such as loose or unfolded may describe more generally.
Not tucked in or folded; loose, especially of clothing, bedding, or hair.
"He left his shirt untucked and rolled up his sleeves."
Common in both British and American English, especially in everyday descriptions of clothing and hair.
To loosen or release something that was tucked in, folded, or drawn up.
"She untucked the top sheet and sat down on the bed."
The verb form is generally informal and is most often used with clothing, bedding, and hair.
An untucked shirt is a small piece of fashion vocabulary for a small rebellion against formality.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How untucked is actually used
Informal to neutral in style and especially common in descriptions of clothing and hair. As a verb, untuck is generally used in an everyday or domestic context.
Easily confused with untucked
An untucked item has been released from a fold or tucked position, whereas an untied item has had a knot or fastening undone.