uncivilized

[uhn-siv-uh-lahyzd]

adjective

1. not civilized civilized or cultured; barbarous.

uncivilized

/ ʌnˈsɪvɪˌlaɪzɪdlɪ, ʌnˈsɪvɪˌlaɪzd /

adjective

1. (of a tribe or people) not yet civilized, esp preliterate

2. lacking culture or sophistication

Other Word Forms

• uncivilizedly adverb
• uncivilizedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of uncivilized¹

First recorded in 1600–10; un- ¹ + civilized

Example Sentences

Masked men grabbing anyone and everyone in the fashion of paramilitary squads from countries we deem uncivilized.

From Los Angeles Times

Attempting to construe the uncivilized and norms-busting battle that Democrats found themselves in, Garcia likened the politics of Trump's second term to a "bar fight."

From Salon

Some may find that idea revolting, a belief often, if unknowingly, steeped in colonialism and the notion that eating insects is "uncivilized."

From Salon

“In view of Gao’s uncivilized visit and his behavior that may cause harm to giant pandas, he is prohibited from entering the panda base … for life,” the notice said.

From Seattle Times

“My mom says the way they practice...is uncivilized.”

From Literature

Related Words

• barbaric 
• barbarous 
• boorish 
• churlish 
• disrespectful 
• impolite 
• rude 
• unconscionable 
• vulgar