mess Synonyms
Another word for mess
• noun (Context 1)
A dirty, untidy, or disorderly state of things, or a collection of things that are scattered and disorganized.
"Please clean up the clutter in the kitchen before our guests arrive."
• noun (Context 2)
A situation that is full of problems, confusion, or difficulty, or a person experiencing severe emotional or financial trouble.
"The company's finances were in a complete shambles after years of poor management."
• verb (Context 3)
To make something untidy, dirty, or disorganized, or to bungle a task (often used with 'up').
"The strong wind messed her hair as she walked across the bridge."
• verb (Context 4)
To meddle, interfere, or handle something carelessly (usually followed by 'with' or 'around').
"Do not tamper with the settings on the laboratory equipment unless you are trained."
• noun (Context 5)
A building or room in a military base or on a ship where service members eat their meals and socialize.
"The officers gathered in the mess hall for dinner after the training exercise."
• noun (Context 6)
A portion or dish of soft, pulpy, or liquid food prepared for a meal (now mainly regional or historical).
"He cooked a fresh pottage of greens and beans for supper."
• verb (Context 7)
To eat meals together as part of a group, especially in a military dining hall.
"The visiting naval cadets messed with the ship's crew during the voyage."
Opposites of mess
The opposite of mess shifts depending on context. Common opposites include: