Definition

The most unattractive or unpleasant in appearance.

Example

Despite its reputation, some people find beauty in the ugliest of things.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I just saw a photo of that old car, and it was the ugliest thing I've ever seen.

Oh really? I thought it had a certain charm to it.

Charm? I can’t believe you think that!

Well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ugliest → It is formed from "ugly" (from Old Norse *uggligr*, meaning fearsome or horrible) and the suffix "-est" (meaning the most). The word "ugliest" means the most ugly or the one that is the least attractive.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old Norse word for fearsome, and remember that "ugliest" means the most unattractive.

Visually Confused Words