Definition

Not pleasing to the eye; lacking beauty or attractiveness.

Example

The unbeautiful building stood out among the elegant structures around it.

Conversation

I saw that painting at the gallery, and honestly, it was quite unbeautiful.

Really? I thought it had a unique charm to it.

I guess beauty is subjective, but I just didn't get it.

That's true! Art can definitely be a hit or miss.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unbeautiful → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "beautiful" (from Old French *beauteux*, meaning possessing beauty). The word "unbeautiful" means not possessing beauty or lacking beauty.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') combined with 'full of beauty' — that's why unbeautiful means lacking beauty.

Visually Confused Words