disreputable

UK: /dɪsˈrɛpjʊtəb(ə)l/ | US: /dɪsˈrɛpjʊtəb(ə)l/

Definition

  1. adj. lacking respectability or good reputation; considered dishonorable or untrustworthy.

Structure
dis <opposite>repute <esteem>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word "disreputable" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Dis-" (from Latin dis-), meaning "opposite" or "lack of," negates the following root.
  2. "Repute" (from Latin reputare, "to reckon or consider"), refers to one's standing or esteem.
  3. "-able" (from Latin -abilis), a suffix indicating capability or tendency.
    Originally, "reputable" described someone worthy of respect, but adding "dis-" inverted the meaning to imply a loss of social standing. The word emerged in the early 17th century, reflecting societal emphasis on public perception.
Examples

  1. The disreputable bar was known for its shady clientele.

  2. His disreputable past made it hard to find employment.

  3. She avoided the disreputable neighborhood after dark.

  4. The journalist exposed the disreputable practices of the corporation.

  5. Wearing torn clothes gave him a disreputable appearance.