Rebarbative

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ɹɪˈbɑːbətɪv/

Definitions

1. Extremely unattractive or objectionable in a way that causes others to draw back or feel repelled
2. Deeply repellent or disagreeable in appearance or manner, inspiring avoidance and disgust
3. Strikingly offensive or distasteful in character, arousing strong aversion and withdrawal from others

Etymology: The image behind this word is a face-off. Middle French "rebarber" meant "to oppose," and its literal sense comes from Latin "barba," "beard": to stand beard to beard against someone, chin to chin, like two men squaring off for a fight. From that combative posture the word moved into French as "rébarbatif," describing something that bristles and pushes you away. English took the adjective from French, and its meaning kept that sense of resistance. Something rebarbative is not just unpleasant but forbidding, the kind of thing, or person, whose manner makes you want to keep your distance. The original picture of two bearded opponents glaring at each other survives in the word's stiff, bristling feel.

Synonyms: repellent, off-putting, unpleasant

Antonyms: attractive, pleasant, inviting