antisocial

[an-tee-soh-shuhl, an-tahy-]

adjective

1. unwilling or unable to associate in a normal or friendly way with other people.

   He's not antisocial, just shy.

   Synonyms: misanthropic, retiring, unsociable
   Antonyms: affable, genial, gregarious

2. antagonistic, hostile, or unfriendly toward others; menacing; threatening.

   an antisocial act.

   Synonyms: intimidating, disruptive

3. opposed or detrimental to social order or the principles on which society is constituted.

   antisocial behavior.

4. Psychiatry.,  of or relating to a pattern of behavior in which social norms and the rights of others are persistently violated.

noun

1. a person exhibiting antisocial traits.

antisocial

/ ˌæntɪˈsəʊʃəl /

adjective

1. avoiding the company of other people; unsociable

2. contrary or injurious to the interests of society in general

Other Word Forms

• antisocially adverb
• antisociality noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of antisocial¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; anti- + social

Example Sentences

"Some of our biggest complaints are from members of the public who are trying to enjoy the green spaces, but they're unable to due to this antisocial behaviour," he said.

From BBC

Garland also pointed to an assessment that found Menendez exhibited antisocial traits, entitlement, deception, manipulation and a resistance to accept consequences.

From Los Angeles Times

Eleven towns in Surrey joined the government scheme which is running until 30 September and aims to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour.

From BBC

But under current legislation, he still has to prove antisocial or nuisance behaviour.

From BBC

Near the stadium and before the concerts, a ban on street drinking will be in place in an effort to prevent antisocial behaviour.

From BBC

Related Words

• alienated 
• introverted www.thesaurus.com
• standoffish