unsightly

adjective

un·​sight·​ly ˌən-ˈsīt-lē 

: not pleasing to the sight : not comely

an unsightly mess

unsightliness

ˌən-ˈsīt-lē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• grotesque
• hideous
• homely
• ill-favored
• monstrous
• ugly
• unappealing
• unattractive
• unbeautiful
• uncomely
• unhandsome
• unlovely
• unpleasing
• unpretty
• vile

Examples of unsightly in a Sentence

The cracks in the wall are unsightly.

strip-mining leaves an unsightly gash in the landscape

Recent Examples on the Web

Crow poop creates an unsightly and unsanitary mess in the economic heart of the city. —Kale Williams, Axios, 2 Dec. 2024

Just be sure to look for liners topped with rust-resistant metal grommets because a trail of rust streaking your liner can be very unsightly! 4. —Shivani Vyas, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Oct. 2024

Grout, which is porous, can be a breeding ground for these unsightly and potentially hazardous issues. —Jamie Gold, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

And besides the unsightly appearance, lint can also clog washing machines and dryers, leading to potential mechanical issues. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

unsightly

adjective

un·​sight·​ly ˌən-ˈsīt-lē 

ˈən-

: unpleasant to the sight : ugly

an unsightly scar

unsightliness noun