Definition

The state or quality of being unpleasant to look at; something that is not attractive or beautiful.

Example

The ugliness of the abandoned building made the neighborhood feel less inviting.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the ugliness of some modern art pieces?

Definitely! Some of them just seem like a random mess to me.

Right? It's like they embrace ugliness instead of beauty.

Exactly! Sometimes, I just don't get the appeal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ugliness → It is formed from "ugly" (from Old Norse *uggligr*, meaning fearsome or dreadful) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "ugliness" refers to the state of being ugly or unpleasant in appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old Norse word for fearsome, which helps you remember that ugliness refers to the state of being unpleasant or fearsome in appearance.

Visually Confused Words