unflattering

adjective

un·​flat·​ter·​ing ˌən-ˈfla-tə-riŋ How to pronounce unflattering (audio)
Synonyms of unflatteringnext
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott immediately characterized an unflattering AI image of him as being racist. Torrey Snow, Baltimore Sun, 6 May 2026 In smaller rooms, harsh or overly bright lighting can feel clinical, emphasizing tight corners and casting unflattering shadows. Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 1 May 2026 Murray’s shooting splits, dragged down by his 4-for-17 Game 6, were just as unflattering. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 1 May 2026 We got used to this color enough to complain when early LEDs debuted in horrifyingly unflattering, stay-awake-all-night whites. Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unflattering

Word History

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unflattering was in 1581

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Cite this Entry

“Unflattering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unflattering. Accessed 12 May. 2026.

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