untoward Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite not in keeping with accepted standards of what is right or proper in polite society
    unbecoming; uncomely; indecorous; unseemly; indecent.
    • was buried with indecent haste
    • indecorous behavior
    • language unbecoming to a lady
    • unseemly to use profanity
    • moved to curb their untoward ribaldry
  2. adjective satellite contrary to your interests or welfare
    adverse; inauspicious.
    • adverse circumstances
    • made a place for themselves under the most untoward conditions

WordNet

Un*to"ward preposition
Etymology
Unto + -ward.
Definitions
  1. Toward. Obs. Gower.
Un*to"ward adjective
Etymology
Pref. un- not + toward.
Definitions
  1. Froward; perverse. "Save yourselves from this untoward generation." Acts ii. 40.
  2. Awkward; ungraceful. "Untoward words." Creech. "Untoward manner." Swift.
  3. Inconvenient; troublesome; vexatious; unlucky; unfortunate; as, an untoward wind or accident. -- Un*to"ward*ly, adv. -- Un*to"ward*ness, n.

Webster 1913