unattractive

UK: ˌʌnəˈtræktɪv | US: ˌʌnəˈtræktɪv

Definition

  1. adj. not pleasing or appealing to the senses or mind

  2. adj. lacking the power to attract interest or attention

Structure
un <not>attract <pull, draw>ive <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "unattractive" combines three morphemes:

  1. "un-" (Old English "un-"), a prefix meaning "not," negates the following root.
  2. "attract" (Latin "attractus," from "attrahere," meaning "to draw toward"), retains its core sense of pulling or drawing interest.
  3. "-ive" (Latin "-ivus"), a suffix forming adjectives, indicates a quality or tendency.
    The logical progression reflects a negation ("un-") of the ability ("-ive") to draw ("attract") interest.
Examples

  1. The building's dull design made it unattractive to potential buyers.

  2. His rude behavior was highly unattractive to everyone at the party.

  3. The job offer was unattractive due to its low salary and long hours.

  4. Overgrown weeds made the garden look messy and unattractive.

  5. She found his arrogance deeply unattractive.