Desray

/dɛˈsreɪ/ noun

Definition

Disorder, chaos, or disarray; a state of being disheveled or scattered.

Etymology

From Old French desroi, combining the prefix des- (dis-, un-) with roi (order). This archaic word is rarely used in modern English, having been largely replaced by 'disarray.'

Kelly Says

Medieval texts use 'desray' for both physical and moral chaos—a disheveled room and a corrupt kingdom were both in 'desray,' showing how disorder was once seen as both practical and moral failing.

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