Definitions

unbecoming

[uhn-bi-kuhm-ing] / ˌʌn bɪˈkʌm ɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

improper, unsuitable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

indecent unflattering unseemly untoward

WEAK

awkward clumsy discreditable gauche ill-suited inappropriate inapt incongruous indecorous indelicate inept maladroit malapropos offensive rough salacious tacky tasteless unattractive unbefitting uncomely undue unfair unfit unfitting ungodly unhandsome unlovely unseasonable unsightly unsuited untimely unworthy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

proper

WEAK

acceptable becoming fitting seemly suitable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Gray had no choice but to move with the kind of urgency that Augusta National finds unbecoming.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

“It’s unbecoming of the office in which you represent.”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2025

Rather than being reported to the police the incident was recorded as "inappropriate behaviour unbecoming of a warrant officer".

From BBC • Sep. 8, 2025

We’ve become desensitized to the ritual by now, but slobbering over an elected official—of any stripe—is, and always will be, unbecoming.

From Slate • Mar. 8, 2025

Were they grateful to be in his presence, or terrified of the outcome if he found their portraits unbecoming?

From "Between Shades of Gray" by Ruta Sepetys

Vocabulary lists containing unbecoming

"Macbeth" Vocabulary from Act III

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"Ulysses" by Alfred, Lord Tennyson

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!