# ugliness

/ˈəɡɫinəs/ (US) · /ˈʌɡlinəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ugliness
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the quality of being unattractive or unpleasant to look at. It can also describe something that is morally bad or cruel.

For teachers: the quality of being unattractive or aesthetically displeasing; also used to describe moral or social repulsiveness.

## Examples

- The ugliness of the old building surprised everyone.
- The politician's ugliness was not just physical but also reflected in his cruel treatment of the poor.
- The novel explores the ugliness of human nature through the lens of a small village where every character is defined by their own selfish desires.

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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.