unflattering

adjective

un·​flat·​ter·​ing ˌən-ˈfla-tə-riŋ How to pronounce unflattering (audio)
: not flattering
an unflattering portrait
especially : unfavorable
unflattering remarks
unflatteringly adverb

Examples of unflattering in a Sentence

She was wearing the most unflattering outfit.
Recent Examples on the Web Tax pros are used to competing with TurboTax’s software and with its higher end human service, but were livid over the unflattering portrayal of traditional tax professionals and worried about the reputational hit. Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024 The feature was set in an unflattering dystopian Detroit, but, considering America’s long leashes for both capitalist behemoths and law enforcement, this reboot could easily be set in the present day and just about anywhere. Mikey O'Connell, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 Sep. 2024 The president's son was already facing potential prison time after his June conviction on felony gun charges in a trial that aired unflattering and salacious details about his struggles with a crack cocaine addiction. Democrat-Gazette Staff From Wire Reports, arkansasonline.com, 6 Sep. 2024 The long-line cut provides more coverage than a traditional sweater without feeling bulky or unflattering, while the tasteful turtleneck adds another layer of warmth as temperatures continue to drop. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unflattering 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unflattering.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unflattering was in 1581

Dictionary Entries Near unflattering

Cite this Entry

“Unflattering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unflattering. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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