What does ugly mean Meaning and Definition
What does ugly mean
Pronunciation
/ˈʌɡli/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Unpleasant to look at; having an unattractive or disagreeable appearance.
Examples
- The painting was considered ugly by the art critics.
- The worn-out furniture looked ugly in the living room.
Synonyms
- Filthy
- Dirty
- Unkempt
Antonyms
- Beautiful
- Attractive
- Pretty
Etymology
The word “ugly” comes from the Old English word “uglīg,” which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*uglaz.” This word is also related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*au-” meaning “not” or “opposite of.”
Usage Notes
The word “ugly” can be used to describe not only physical appearance but also things that are unpleasant or disagreeable in other ways, such as behavior or ideas.
Cultural References
The word “ugly” has been used in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the novel “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen features a main character who is considered ugly by his peers.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Ugly duckling” – a person or thing that is initially considered unattractive but later becomes beautiful or successful.
- “Ugly truth” – a difficult or unpleasant reality that must be faced.
Related Words or Phrases
- Unattractive
- Unpleasant
- Disagreeable
Collocations
- Ugly face
- Ugly building
- Ugly situation
Frequency of Use
The word “ugly” is a common and widely used term in English language, and its frequency of use can be found in various dictionaries and language resources.
Common Misspellings
- Ugley
- Uglist
Additional Information
Ugly things can be aesthetically displeasing, but they can also have other negative connotations, such as being dirty or diseased. Some people may view the concept of ugliness as subjective, while others may believe it can be objectively determined.
The perception of what is ugly can also vary across cultures and historical periods. For instance, in ancient Greece, certain forms of art and architecture were considered ugly by the standards of modern times, while in some African cultures, scarification and other forms of body modification are considered beautiful.
In addition to its physical connotations, the word “ugly” can also be used to convey a sense of moral or emotional disapproval. For example, someone might call a behavior “ugly” if it is perceived as selfish or cruel.