Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for appalling. Search instead for Appalling/7.
Definitions

appalling

[uh-paw-ling] / əˈpɔ lɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
horrifying
Synonyms
STRONGEST
alarming astounding awful dire disheartening dreadful frightening frightful ghastly harrowing hideous horrible horrific shocking terrible terrifying
STRONG
bad daunting dismaying gross heavy intimidating mean petrifying scaring unnerving
WEAK
fearful formidable grim grody horrid the end
Antonyms
STRONGEST
calming comforting delightful good nice pleasant pleasing wonderful
STRONG
polite
WEAK
encouraging reassuring satisfying

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.

This stuff is all absolutely appalling, and it is an unqualified good that she’ll be out the door.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

We’ve all seen the appalling videos of masked agents ambushing and abducting these migrants in the halls of New York’s immigration court as they’re leaving a hearing.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

Last year, the Transport Secretary described the scheme as "an appalling mess".

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Sir Keir said Timothy should be sacked for his "appalling" comments.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

The lyrics, by deliberate, sharp contrast, speak graphically of Mackie Messer’s appalling catalogue of crimes.

From "The Story of Music" by Howard Goodall

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.