unprepossessing
UK: ˌʌnpriːpəˈzesɪŋ | US: ˌʌnpriːpəˈzesɪŋ
adj. not attractive or impressive in appearance
adj. failing to make a positive impression
un<not> + prepossessing<attractive>
- un: A prefix of negation (from Old English un-).
- prepossessing: Derived from prepossess (to impress favorably) + -ing (adjective suffix).
- prepossess = pre<before> + possess<hold>, originally meaning "to occupy beforehand," later evolving to "to impress favorably."
Etymology Origin:
The word combines the negative prefix un- with prepossessing, which stems from the verb prepossess (16th century). Prepossess originally meant "to seize or occupy in advance" (from Latin prae- "before" + possidere "to possess"). By the 18th century, it shifted to describe creating a favorable impression. Thus, unprepossessing literally means "not making a prior favorable impression," often used to describe modest or plain appearances.
The building’s unprepossessing exterior hid a stunning interior.
Despite her unprepossessing demeanor, she was a brilliant speaker.
The café looked unprepossessing but served the best coffee in town.
His unprepossessing clothes belied his wealth.
The book’s unprepossessing cover didn’t reflect its profound content.