Ramshackle

Pronunciation: /ˈræmˌʃækəl/

Definitions of ramshackle

adjective in a state of severe disrepair; lacking structure or organization

Example Sentences

A1 The old house was ramshackle with peeling paint and a crooked roof.

A2 We found a ramshackle cabin in the woods that looked like it had been abandoned for years.

B1 The ramshackle barn was in desperate need of repair before the winter storms arrived.

B2 Despite its ramshackle appearance, the quaint little cottage had a cozy charm.

C1 The ramshackle building was scheduled for demolition due to safety concerns.

C2 The ramshackle structure stood as a reminder of the town's once prosperous past.

Examples of ramshackle in a Sentence

formal The ramshackle building was deemed uninhabitable by the city inspectors.

informal We found a ramshackle cabin in the woods for our weekend getaway.

slang That old car is so ramshackle, it's a miracle it still runs.

figurative His ramshackle excuse for being late didn't fool anyone.

Grammatical Forms of ramshackle

• past tense: ramshackled
• plural: ramshackles
• comparative: more ramshackle
• superlative: most ramshackle
• present tense: ramshackles
• future tense: will ramshackle
• perfect tense: has ramshackled
• continuous tense: is ramshackling
• singular: ramshackle
• positive degree: ramshackle
• infinitive: to ramshackle
• gerund: ramshackling
• participle: ramshackled

Origin and Evolution of ramshackle

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The word 'ramshackle' originated from the combination of the words 'ram' meaning to collide forcefully and 'shackle' meaning to restrain or confine. It was first used to describe something that was poorly constructed or in a state of disrepair.

Evolution of the word: Over time, 'ramshackle' has come to be used more broadly to describe anything that is in a state of disarray or chaos, not just physical structures. The word has evolved to convey a sense of disorder and instability.