unsightly

1 of 2

adjective

un·​sight·​ly ˌən-ˈsīt-lē 

: not pleasing to the sight : not comely

an unsightly mess

unsightliness

ˌən-ˈsīt-lē-nəs 

noun

unsightliness

2 of 2

noun

un·​sightliness ¦ən+ 

: the quality or state of being unsightly

Synonyms of unsightly

Adjective

• ugly
• unpleasing
• hideous
• grotesque

Examples of unsightly in a Sentence

Adjective

The cracks in the wall are unsightly.

strip-mining leaves an unsightly gash in the landscape

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

That creative approach is sure to be necessary not only to navigate an unsightly quarterback competition, but also to spin it as anything but an anchor on the rest of the unit. — Jim Reineking, USA Today, 17 Aug. 2026

Plus, the dedicated short sizing ensures petite shoppers can finally avoid that unsightly pool of fabric at the ankles. — Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2026

At the same time, function doesn’t have to come at the cost of unsightly outdoor gear. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 3 Aug. 2026

To prevent unsightly dust from gathering on your attractive houseplants, try adding it to your regular cleaning routine. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 27 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsightly

• forthrightly
• fortnightly
• politely
• uprightly
• brightly
• knightly
• lightly
• nightly
• rightly
• sightly
• slightly
• sprightly

Kids Definition

unsightly

adjective

un·​sight·​ly ˌən-ˈsīt-lē 

ˈən-

: unpleasant to the sight : ugly

an unsightly scar

unsightliness noun