Definition

The least attractive or pleasant in appearance or character.

Example

Despite its unloveliest features, the building has a unique charm.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you seen that old building downtown?

Yeah, it's probably the unloveliest structure I've ever seen.

I can't believe they haven't done anything to improve it.

Right? It really stands out in a bad way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unloveliest → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "lovely" (from Old English "luflic", meaning full of love or pleasing) and the superlative suffix "-est" (meaning most). The word "unloveliest" means the most lacking in beauty or love, or the least pleasing.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') combined with 'full of love' ('lovely') — so 'unloveliest' means the most lacking in love or beauty.

Visually Confused Words