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.
Jennifer Lopez went back in time to find the denim style that's perfect for anyone who finds baggy jeans unflattering and skinny jeans too restrictive. Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 20 Dec. 2025 They were widely criticized for being unflattering, particularly a close-up on Karoline Leavitt that seemed to show fresh filler injection sites around her lips. Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 19 Dec. 2025 Some descriptions are unflattering, with the administration saving most of its venom for former President Joe Biden. Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 17 Dec. 2025 Anderson’s point isn’t to take unflattering portraits, and his style can change up even within the same shoot. Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 17 Dec. 2025 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 21 Dec. 2025.

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