Alphabetic U

verb

1 of 54

Good / New

audio

upgrade - To improve something to a higher level

When Betty got messages that her Windows 7 was no longer being supported, she realized it was time to upgrade to Windows 10.

adjective

2 of 54

Bad / Nervous

Url audio

unnerving - Disturbing or upsetting in a way that makes someone feel anxious or afraid, sometimes leading to a loss of courage, confidence, or composure.

It was an unnerving experience walking alone in the empty and unused area under the highway.

adjective

3 of 54

Bad / Disgusting

audio

uncouth - (of a person or their appearance or behavior) lacking good manners, refinement, or grace

People rarely invited Vince to dinner because of his uncouth table manners.

adjective

4 of 54

Bad / Weak

Url audio

unsteady - Not firm, stable, or balanced; likely to wobble or fall.

The table is unsteady because one of the legs wasn't fixed correctly.

noun

See verb

5 of 54

Bad / Mistake

Url audio

unforgivable - So bad as to be unable to be forgiven or excused

He was fired because the company felt that stealing money was an unforgivable act.

verb

6 of 54

Bad / Aggressive

Url audio

usurp - To take a position of power or importance illegally or by force; to seize or assume something without the right to do so.

Throughout history, many rulers have usurped thrones through deceit and betrayal

adjective

7 of 54

Other / Surprise

audio

unthinkable - So out of the ordinary that it cannot be imagined as possible

When Genghis Khan was born in 1162, it was unthinkable that someone from his nomadic tribe could conquer most of the known world - but that is what he did.

noun

8 of 54

Other / Up+Down

audio

uptick - a small increase in the level or value of something

The economist sensed that the uptick in prices was a sign that greater inflation was ahead.

adjective

9 of 54

Bad / Disorganized

Url audio

unkempt - Messy or untidy in appearance, especially referring to hair or clothing, giving a neglected impression.

His unkempt hair made it look like he had just rolled out of bed.

verb

10 of 54

Bad / Hostile

Url audio

undermine - To weaken or damage something, especially gradually or secretly; to sabotage or erode the foundation or support.

Constant criticism from a parent or a boss can undermine a person's self-esteem.

adjective

11 of 54

Good / Strong

audio

unscathed - Without suffering any injury, damage, or harm

Arnold strolled away unscathed from the massive explosion behind him.

verb

12 of 54

Bad / Attack

audio

undermine - To gradually weaken the authority or ability of a person or organization

The polarization and infighting of the members of Congress threatened to undermine its ability to pass meaningful legislation.