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uncool

A2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ʌnkˈuːl/

US

  • /ˌənˈkul/

Description

"Uncool" is not about temperature. It describes something that seems outdated, embarrassing, awkward, or not stylish in a social way. What counts as "cool" changes over time, so something people loved in one decade may seem uncool in another. A dad trying to use teenage slang is a classic example. Sometimes the word suggests that someone is trying too hard, or just does not fit the mood of the group. It is often used in a playful way, especially by younger people talking about styles, habits, or trends that do not seem appealing anymore.

Examples

  1. 1

    Rude action

    It was uncool of Jake to post that photo without asking.

    • Pattern

      uncool of + person + to do X

      socially rude or inconsiderate

  2. 2

    Social image

    She didn’t want to look uncool in front of her new classmates.

  3. 3

    Peer pressure

    Around here, it can feel uncool to admit you need help.

  4. 4

    Canceling plans

    Canceling at the last minute is pretty uncool.

  5. 5

    Music taste

    That band was seen as uncool for years, and now everyone listens to them.

  6. 6

    Failed joke

    He tried to sound cool, but the joke just came off as uncool.

    • Pattern

      come off as + adjective/noun

      seem that way

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • uncooladjective