disrepair

noun

dis·​re·​pair ˌdis-ri-ˈper 

: the state of being in need of repair

a building fallen into disrepair

Synonyms of disrepair

• neglect
• dilapidation
• deterioration
• abandonment

Examples of disrepair in a Sentence

The lighthouse was in disrepair until the volunteers cleaned it up.

After years of neglect, the house fell into disrepair.

Recent Examples on the Web

After falling into disrepair during the Civil War, the property was bought by Eliza Middleton Huger Smith, who went to work restoring it. — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 6 Oct. 2026

Historic preservation of the Excelsior Club Last year, Kennedy noted that the building was in disrepair and unsalvageable. — Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 6 Oct. 2026

Students complain that absent teachers aren’t being replaced and say schools are in a state of serious disrepair. — Joseph Ataman, CNN Money, 2 Oct. 2026

While one is brand new and has large windows, a lobby gallery, a 3D technology lab and an outdoor sculpture yard, the other is decades-old and in a state of disrepair. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disrepair

• aftercare
• anywhere
• billionaire
• chinaware
• debonair
• dinnerware
• doctrinaire
• earthenware
• everywhere
• frigidaire
• kitchenware
• legionnaire

Kids Definition

disrepair

noun

dis·​re·​pair ˌdis-ri-ˈpa(ə)r 

-ˈpe(ə)r

: the condition of needing repair