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.
Yellow Despite being a major staple in cozy '90s kitchens, countertops in mustard, magnolia, and Tuscan yellow can feel dull and unflattering amongst today's more subtle hues. The Spruce, 30 June 2026 Your writing could end up as an unflattering story on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or as content for a YouTube channel. Allbusiness, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 His campaign shrugged off the unflattering survey data. Matthew Kelly updated June 26, Kansas City Star, 26 June 2026 And several of the unflattering stats have tapered off a ton this last year, including sacks taken (27 in 2025, down from 62 in 2023). Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 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 6 Jul. 2026.

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