Definition

Something that is not very attractive or impressive; it lacks charm or appeal.

Example

The restaurant had an unprepossessing exterior, but the food was excellent.

Conversation

Have you seen that new café down the street?

Yeah, I went there yesterday. It’s a bit unprepossessing, but the coffee is great.

I wasn't expecting much from the outside.

Same here, but sometimes those places surprise you!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unprepossessing → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "pre-" (meaning before), and "possessing" (from the root "possess" which comes from Latin "possidere", meaning to have or hold). The word describes something that does not create a favorable impression before being seen or experienced.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') creating a good impression 'before' ('pre-') you see it — that's why unprepossessing means it doesn't look appealing at first.

Visually Confused Words