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Unlovable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’”
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unlovable

[สŒnหˆlสŒvษ™bl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

emotional state

Unlovable describes a person or thing that is difficult to love or is perceived as having qualities that repel affection. This can stem from various factors, such as emotional distance, unkind behavior, or a history of negative experiences that lead others to feel unable to connect with them. The term can also reflect self-perception, where an individual believes themselves to be unworthy of love. It is often used in psychological contexts when discussing relationships and emotional health.

Synonyms

repulsive, unappealing, unattractive, undeserving.

Examples of usage

  • Many individuals feel unlovable after experiences of rejection.
  • The character in the movie felt unlovable due to past traumas.
  • She often portrayed herself as unlovable, pushing people away.
  • Despite her talents, she believed she was unlovable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feelings of being unlovable can often stem from past traumas or negative self-image, affecting mental health.
  • Research suggests that thoughts of being unlovable can lead to isolation and difficulty in forming close relationships unless addressed.
  • Therapies often focus on improving self-love and self-acceptance to combat feelings of being unlovable.

Literature

  • Various literary works depict characters who feel unlovable, illustrating the complexity of human emotions, such as in F. Scott Fitzgeraldโ€™s 'The Great Gatsby'.
  • The theme of unlovability is prevalent in Shakespearean tragedies, often used to deepen character flaws and motivations.
  • Children's literature sometimes includes characters who feel unlovable but eventually find friendship and acceptance, teaching that everyone has value.

Cultural References

  • The term appears in popular songs, portraying the pain of feeling unlovable, reflecting real-life experiences of many.
  • Movies and shows often depict characters that feel unlovable gaining self-acceptance by the end, highlighting personal growth.
  • Unlovable characters in animated shows can teach children about empathy and understanding differences among people.

Origin of 'unlovable'

Main points about word origin

  • The root of 'lovable' comes from the Middle English 'luve', meaning love, combined with the prefix 'un-' to signify negation.
  • The usage of 'unlovable' gained popularity in English literature during the 19th century, often to describe characters with difficult personalities.
  • In modern usage, the term can reference feelings of inadequacy or the perception of being hard to connect with.

The term 'unlovable' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the root word 'lovable', which comes from the verb 'love'. The word 'love' can be traced back to Old English 'lufu', which represented deep affection or strong emotional attachment. The addition of 'able' suggests the capacity to be loved, making 'lovable' signify something that can attract love or affection. The prefix 'un-' negates this quality, leading to the formulation of 'unlovable' in the early 20th century. The concept reflects deeper emotional and psychological themes related to self-worth and external perceptions in interpersonal relationships. It resonates especially within contexts of mental health, where individuals grapple with feelings of inadequacy and rejection.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,268, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.