rhizoverbBeta
DictionarydisfigureSpoil appearance
verb

disfigure

dis-FIG-yer/dɪsˈfɪɡjər/

To spoil the appearance of someone or something.

A deep scratch and large chipped area disfigure the ceramic vase.

A once-elegant ceramic vase now bears a large ugly chipped area and a deep scratch across its surface, with the fallen chip beside it.
Etymology
disLatinundo; reverse
+figureLatinto form; shape

Dis- reverses the idea of forming or shaping. In this word, that reversal means marring an outward form—damaging its beauty or symmetry rather than simply giving it a different shape.

In context

TheeLitOne9:59
wanted him to suffer but that his intention was not to kill he added it was basically to maim him disable him and then pour acid on his face to disfigure him so he was scarred for life
CHICAGO DUDES REACTION TO Man So Dangerous He Killed Love Rival & Drowned His Body In Acid

More examples

  • The burns permanently disfigured his face.
  • A large stain disfigures the otherwise beautiful painting.
  • Vandals are disfiguring the statues with spray paint.

Forms

disfigure · disfigures · disfigured · disfiguring

disfigurement noun — Damage that spoils a person's or thing's appearance.

Similar words

mar
Can describe smaller flaws and damage beyond physical appearance.
deface
Usually means damaging a surface, especially with deliberate marks.