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Unlovely: meaning, definitions and examples

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unlovely

 

[ ˌʌnˈlʌv.li ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

appearance, behavior

The term 'unlovely' refers to something or someone that is not attractive or pleasing in appearance or demeanor. It can denote a lack of charm or appeal, often describing qualities that evoke an unpleasant impression. While it may describe physical attributes, it is equally applicable to character traits that are disagreeable or unkind. The word implies an absence of affection or admiration, as well as a tendency to provoke indifference or disdain.

Synonyms

disagreeable, offensive, ugly, unattractive, unpleasant

Examples of usage

  • The unlovely building stood abandoned on the street.
  • Her unlovely remarks during the meeting left everyone feeling uncomfortable.
  • Despite his unlovely appearance, he had a kind heart.
  • The movie was filled with unlovely characters that were hard to relate to.

Translations

Translations of the word "unlovely" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desagradável

🇮🇳 अप्रिय

🇩🇪 unliebenswert

🇮🇩 tidak menyenangkan

🇺🇦 негарний

🇵🇱 nieprzyjemny

🇯🇵 魅力のない

🇫🇷 déplaisant

🇪🇸 desagradable

🇹🇷 hoş olmayan

🇰🇷 불쾌한

🇸🇦 غير محبب

🇨🇿 nepříjemný

🇸🇰 nepríjemný

🇨🇳 不愉快的

🇸🇮 neprijeten

🇮🇸 óhamingjusamur

🇰🇿 ұнамайтын

🇬🇪 არასასიამოვნო

🇦🇿 xoşagəlməz

🇲🇽 desagradable

Etymology

The word 'unlovely' is formed by combining the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with the word 'lovely,' which has origins in the Old English 'luflic,' meaning 'lovable' or 'worthy of love.' The prefix 'un-' is a common marker in English that negates the original meaning of the root word. 'Unlovely' surfaced in the English language in the late 19th century, primarily used to highlight an absence of beauty or charm. Its usage has typically been consistent, often appearing in literary contexts to describe characters, settings, or emotions that lack appeal. The word captures a sense of disappointment or revulsion, enabling it to convey complex feelings toward someone or something that does not inspire affection.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,713, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.