Synonyms for

Ugly

Verb / ˈʌgli: / Another word for ugly — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

unpleasant or unattractive in appearance

Synonyms & similar words

surly frightful beautiful wretched vile slimy despicable horrible unworthy worthless atrocious horrifying unattractive unsightly homely plain hideous repulsive disgusting repugnant revolting grotesque gruesome monstrous deformed misshapen unappealing unlovely unprepossessing uncomely ugly-ass

Synonyms by register

Formal

unattractive unsightly hideous grotesque

Informal

gross yucky fugly nasty-looking

Literary

foul monstrous grim

Antonyms

beautiful attractive handsome pretty lovely gorgeous comely

Common collocations

  • ugly duckling
  • ugly truth
  • ugly customer
  • ugly mood
  • ugly face
  • ugly sweater
  • ugly situation

Word family

noun ugliness
adverb uglily

Usage note

While 'ugly' can describe appearance, it can also refer to unpleasant situations, behavior, or emotions. Be mindful of its strong negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The cat was so ugly, it was almost cute.
  2. I don't like that shirt because it's ugly.
  3. The old car was rusted and ugly.
  4. The witch in the movie was an ugly old hag.
  5. The cake looked ugly, but it tasted delicious.

Quotes

  • Beauty is only skin deep, but ugly goes clean to the bone. - Dorothy Parker
  • There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so. - William Shakespeare
  • I used to think I was ugly. - Lady Gaga

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