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.
Jones finished tied for second in that unflattering category with 11 sacks allowed. Mike Defabo, New York Times, 29 May 2025 The book also describes King Charles and Queen Camilla leaking unflattering stories about Prince William and Kate Middleton to the press. Lissete Lanuza Sáenz, StyleCaster, 19 May 2025 This case, overseen by United States District Judge Amit Mehta, is taking place against a backdrop that is particularly unflattering for Google. Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 21 Apr. 2025 The episodes are decidedly unflattering and yet undeniably popular; the outrage stirred up by them, as any internet user understands, begets attention that’s ultimately useful to the company. Emma Stefansky, The Atlantic, 17 Apr. 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 5 Jun. 2025.

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