Hideous: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something or someone extremely unpleasant or shocking in appearance. Often implies a strong negative reaction.

• The abandoned house had a hideous look at night
• His behavior at the party was absolutely hideous

Used in a more general sense to describe something or someone unpleasant to look at. It is a less intense term compared to the others.

• She was upset about the ugly comments on her post
• Although his face was considered ugly, he had a kind heart

Used to describe something or someone that causes a strong feeling of disgust or aversion. It can be related to appearance, smell, or behavior.

• The smell coming from the trash was repulsive
• His repulsive attitude made him very unpopular among his peers

Used for something that is comically or repulsively ugly or distorted. Often implies a mix of horror and absurdity.

• The painting depicted grotesque creatures that seemed like a nightmare
• His grotesque sense of humor made everyone uncomfortable

Used to describe something that is abnormally large, frighteningly unnatural, or shockingly wrong. It often implies something of a threatening nature.

• The monstrous shape of the shadow terrified the children
• The criminal's monstrous acts were condemned by everyone in the community

Used to describe something extremely ugly or horrifying in appearance. It can also describe an action or situation that is shocking or dreadful.

• She wore a hideous dress that looked like it belonged in the last century.
• The crime scene was hideous; no one could bear to look at it.

Used when describing something that causes someone to feel hurt, angry, or upset, often through disrespect or insensitivity. This term often carries a negative connotation.

• His remarks about her weight were highly offensive.
• The comedian's jokes were considered offensive by many in the audience.

This word conveys a sense of intense disgust. It is often used to describe ideas, actions, or behaviors that are morally repulsive.

• The idea of cheating in the exam was repugnant to her.
• His repugnant behavior at the party got him kicked out.

Appropriate for describing something that causes a feeling of strong disgust or hatred, often due to a moral or ethical stance.

• His racist opinions are absolutely abhorrent to me.
• The thought of animal cruelty is abhorrent.

Refers to something extremely bad or unpleasant, particularly in a manner that is shocking due to its severity or brutality.

• The conditions in the prison were atrocious.
• Her spelling was atrocious, and even basic words were often incorrect.