adj
untimely
uhn-TYM-lee
Untimely (adj) means happening at a bad or inconvenient moment. Example: “The announcement came at an untimely moment, right before the holidays.”
adj
1
Happening at a bad or inconvenient moment.
"The announcement came at an untimely moment, right before the holidays."
2
Happening too soon, especially of a death.
"Fans mourned the singer's untimely death at just 27."
How to use untimely
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBadly timed, or coming earlier than it should have — often used about death.
Common pairings
untimely death
untimely demise
untimely end
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Word forms
- Comparative
- untimelier, more untimely
- Superlative
- untimeliest, most untimely
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The announcement came at an _____ moment, right before the holidays.
Etymology
Came into English via Middle English untymely (also earlier untimliche), made up of un- and timely. It is first attested in the early 13th century. Compare Middle Danish utimelig and Old English untídlic (“unseasonable”).
Synonyms
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premature
wrong
untimeless
ill-timed
intempestive
inopportune
mistimed
timeless
unseasonable
untime
untimeous
Antonyms
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.
