Prettier: meaning, definitions and examples

🌸
Add to dictionary

prettier

 

[ ˈprɪtiər ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

appearance, comparative

The word 'prettier' is a comparative form of the adjective 'pretty', which means attractive in a delicate way without being truly beautiful. It is often used to describe someone or something that has a pleasing appearance or charm that is engaging. 'Prettier' can be used in various contexts, including descriptions of people, objects, or scenes that evoke a sense of beauty that is sweet rather than strong.

Synonyms

fairer, more appealing, more attractive, more charming.

Examples of usage

  • She looked prettier than ever in that dress.
  • This garden is prettier than the one next door.
  • The sunset tonight is even prettier than usual.

Translations

Translations of the word "prettier" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais bonito

🇮🇳 सुंदर

🇩🇪 schöner

🇮🇩 lebih cantik

🇺🇦 гарніший

🇵🇱 ładniejszy

🇯🇵 より美しい

🇫🇷 plus beau

🇪🇸 más bonito

🇹🇷 daha güzel

🇰🇷 더 아름다운

🇸🇦 أجمل

🇨🇿 hezčí

🇸🇰 krajší

🇨🇳 更美

🇸🇮 lepši

🇮🇸 fallegri

🇰🇿 көркем

🇬🇪 მშვენიერი

🇦🇿 gözəl

🇲🇽 más bonito

Etymology

The term 'pretty' comes from the Old English word 'pryttig', which means 'crafty' or 'sly'. Over time, its meaning evolved to represent attractiveness, especially in a delicate or charming way. By the Middle Ages, 'pretty' was commonly used to describe someone or something that was attractively nice or pleasing. The comparative form 'prettier' emerged in the English language to signify the increased level of attractiveness. This evolution reflects the shifting perceptions of beauty and attractiveness across various periods in history, emphasizing a more gentle and sweet aspect of beauty rather than stark or intense qualities. The word became more entrenched in the language, influencing everyday conversations and descriptions across cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,599, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.