# monstrosity

/mɑnˈstɹɑsəti/ (US) · /mənstɹˈɒsɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/monstrosity
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

something that is very ugly, strange, or unpleasant to look at. It can also describe a building or object that is badly designed or built.

For teachers: something extremely ugly, grotesque, or repulsive in appearance. Often refers to architectural or mechanical structures that are poorly conceived or executed.

## Examples

- The new office building is a real monstrosity.
- The architect's latest design was dismissed by critics as a hideous monstrosity that ruined the historic skyline.
- While the cathedral's original design was elegant, the addition of the modern glass wing was widely regarded as a structural monstrosity that clashed with the surrounding heritage sites.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.