untoward
UK: ʌnˈtəʊəd | US: ʌnˈtoʊərd
adj. inconvenient or unfavorable
adj. improper or inappropriate
adj. difficult to manage or unruly
The word "untoward" combines the prefix "un-" (meaning "not") with "toward," which originally meant "in the direction of" or "favorable." Over time, "toward" evolved to imply readiness or compliance, so "untoward" came to signify the opposite—something unfavorable, improper, or difficult to manage. The shift reflects how directional language metaphorically extends to behavioral or situational descriptors.
His untoward behavior at the meeting shocked everyone.
The project faced untoward delays due to bad weather.
She found his remarks untoward and offensive.
Despite untoward circumstances, they completed the task.
The horse became untoward and refused to obey commands.