Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ugly-duckling

Noun

/ˈʌɡli ˈdʌklɪŋ/

Definition

A term used to describe a person or thing that is perceived as unattractive or unpromising but has the potential to become beautiful or successful over time.

Examples

She felt like an ugly-duckling in her school, always overlooked.
The movie’s theme centered around the ugly-duckling narrative, showcasing the character’s transformation.

Meaning

The phrase originates from a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, where a young swan is rejected for being ugly before eventually realizing its true beauty.