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
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.
Still, the families of some deceased celebrities and public figures have criticized OpenAI for allowing depictions of vulgar, unflattering or incriminating behavior. Bobby Allyn, NPR, 17 Oct. 2025 The camera angle, looking up, shows an unflattering view of his neck. Nicole Russell, USA Today, 16 Oct. 2025 Carton frequently used a long-running — and what many viewed as unflattering — impression of Waldman during his time on the radio station's morning program. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2025 For decades, unflattering stereotypes of gamers as lethargic young men engaging in an isolating hobby have persevered in popular culture. Andrew McGowan, Variety, 8 Oct. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unflattering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unflattering. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unflattering

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!