unbecoming

[ uhn-bi-kuhm-ing ]

adjective

1. detracting from one's appearance, character, or reputation; unattractive or unseemly:

   an unbecoming hat; unbecoming language.

   Synonyms: unfit, unsuitable, unapt

unbecoming

/ ˌʌnbɪˈkʌmɪŋ /

adjective

1. unsuitable or inappropriate, esp through being unattractive

   an unbecoming hat

2. whenpostpositive, usually foll by of or an object not proper or seemly (for)

   manners unbecoming a lady

Derived Forms

• ˌunbeˈcomingly, adverb
• ˌunbeˈcomingness, noun

Other Words From

• unbe·coming·ly adverb
• unbe·coming·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unbecoming¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; un- ¹ + becoming

Synonym Study

See improper.

Example Sentences

My book Women and Other Monsters is about how women and feminized people can look to the monsters of classical mythology, intended as cautionary tales about overstepping our boundaries, as guides for reclaiming the unbecoming traits we’re supposed to suppress.

From Slate

When they struggled, so did I. But mostly, when they made mistakes unbecoming of their role model image, I dutifully took it upon myself to defend them from criticism.

From Salon

He denied wrongdoing and a complaint of “conduct unbecoming of a priest” was dropped after the boy’s parents withdrew permission for their son to be involved in the proceedings.

From BBC

Such women were especially good at triggering liberals, who may not be as misogynist as Republicans but still have sexist expectations that it's especially unbecoming for women to act this way.

From Salon

“The GOP members’ shameful behavior was unbecoming of our institution for any guest, let alone two of the men responsible for defending our democracy during a dark day in our nation’s history,” McClinton said.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• indecent
• unflattering
• unseemly
• untoward