untimely
Untimely (adj) means happening at a bad or inconvenient moment. Example: “The announcement came at an untimely moment, right before the holidays.”
How to use untimely
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBadly timed, or coming earlier than it should have — often used about death.
Word forms
untimelier comparative, more untimely comparative, more untimely comparative, untimeliest superlative, most untimely superlative, most untimely superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The announcement came at an _____ moment, right before the holidays.
Etymology
From Middle English untymely (also earlier untimliche), equivalent to un- + timely. First attested in the early 13th century. Compare Middle Danish utimelig, Old English untídlic (“unseasonable”).
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for untimely
See all rhymes for untimely →Frequently asked questions
What does “untimely” mean?
The word “untimely” means happening at a bad or inconvenient moment. In plain terms, badly timed, or coming earlier than it should have — often used about death.
How do you pronounce “untimely”?
“Untimely” is pronounced uhn-TYM-lee (/ʌnˈtaɪmli/ in IPA).
How do you use “untimely” in a sentence?
Here is “untimely” used in a sentence: “The announcement came at an untimely moment, right before the holidays.”
What is another word for “untimely”?
Words with a similar meaning to “untimely” include untimeless, ill-timed, intempestive, inopportune, mistimed and timeless.
What is the opposite of “untimely”?
The opposite of “untimely” — its antonyms — are opportune and timely.
What part of speech is “untimely”?
“Untimely” is an adjective.
How many meanings does “untimely” have?
“Untimely” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: happening at a bad or inconvenient moment.