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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.

Volker Turk, the United Nations' High Commissioner for Human Rights, condemned the attacks, saying the numbers killed and injured were appalling.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

But British government minister Wes Streeting told UK broadcasters he regarded West using bipolar disorder "to justify his actions" as "appalling".

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Jim Pearson, deputy chief executive at Alzheimer Scotland, described year-long delays as "appalling".

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

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

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

No more inns now, among these appalling slopes of snow and granite.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin