Unattractive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
👎
unattractive
[ˌʌn.əˈtræk.tɪv ]
Definition
appearance
Not pleasing or appealing in appearance; lacking beauty or charm.
Synonyms
ugly, unappealing, unpleasant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unattractive |
Same as the first entry: Used to describe something that lacks beauty or appealing features.
|
| ugly |
Stronger, more negative term used to describe something very displeasing to the senses or appearance. Often used in informal settings and can be seen as harsh.
|
| unappealing |
Describes things that do not attract attention or interest. Often used in contexts with a slight emphasis on lacking charm or appeal.
|
| unpleasant |
Describes something that creates a sense of discomfort or dislike, often related to experiences or sensations. It is broader and can be used in more serious contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- She found him unattractive because of his unkempt appearance.
- The old house was unattractive with its peeling paint and overgrown garden.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that first impressions significantly impact our perception of attractiveness, often based on quickly observable traits.
- The 'mere-exposure effect' suggests that people tend to develop a preference for things simply because they are familiar, impacting perceptions of attractiveness.
Culture
- In many cultures, ideals of beauty can vary greatly; what is considered unattractive in one culture might be attractive in another.
- Media often emphasizes certain beauty standards, influencing societal ideas of attractiveness and leading to increased perceptions of being unattractive among individuals who don't fit these norms.
Literature
- In literature, characters labeled as unattractive often have deeper qualities that reveal strength or kindness, challenging superficial judgments.
- Classic stories frequently feature the theme of 'inner beauty,' demonstrating how characters deemed unattractive undergo transformation, both literally and metaphorically.
Origin of 'unattractive'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unattractive' combines 'attractive', which comes from the Latin 'attractivus', meaning to draw near, with the prefix 'un-', meaning not.
- The origins of 'attractive' date back to the 15th century, used to describe things that draw interest or admiration.
The word 'unattractive' originated in the late 18th century, formed by adding the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' to the word 'attractive'. It has been used to describe things that lack beauty or charm ever since.
See also: attract, attraction, attractions, attractive, attractively, attractiveness, attractor, attrition, unattractively, unattractiveness.